GOV. Eddie Calvo yesterday signed an executive order formally creating the Guam First Commission, a move many senators praised.

Calvo gave lawmakers credit, saying they were instrumental in moving the Guam First Commission forward. Calvo also said as senator, he was “one of those folks” who voted for it.

“We believe this is important, especially with all the changes that are occurring in our community as a result of the military buildup,” Calvo said.

It took years to breathe life into the creation of the commission after the Attorney General's Office opined that it was inorganic and unconstitutional.

Calvo credited Sen. Judi Guthertz’s recommendation to use his executive authority to create it.

“I’m taking your great advice,” he said.

Sen. Rory Respicio, author of the GFC, had consistently urged the previous administration and the Calvo administration to convene the commission. He thanked Calvo in saying it didn’t matter how the commission was formed, whether it was by law or through an executive order.

Respicio said leaders recognized that “we have to speak with one voice when we’re dealing with the federal government and issues beyond the military buildup. Anything federal-territorial related, we have to speak with one voice and this is the vehicle that would do that.”

Respicio said it took seven years to create the commission. He acknowledged the complexities of convening it, but said it was worth the work.

“If there is one thing we have to get right, it’s the buildup and it’s also how we approach the federal government in having them own up to a lot of things that we have to have them resolve,” Respicio said.

Sen. Tina Muña-Barnes thanked the governor and the bipartisan support.

“Thank you for your efforts. It’s very important. You’re on our team and it shows your commitment and support for our people. With your efforts, this is the right thing to do for our people so that we get the best in the context of a united voice and a united front for our island.”

Guthertz said the military buildup is very important and she and her colleagues support it. At the same time, she said lawmakers are also charged with the responsibility of advocating for the needs of Guam’s people, “and I think our senators have done that and have been trying to do that in a respectful way.”

While much discussions have taken place, what has been missing, Guthertz said, “was a coordinating entity to bring the policy makers together, the leadership together, the business representatives together, and the mayors to speak and develop an approach that is representative of the thinking of the people of Guam and to present that unified approach to our military friends and our federal counterpart.”

Sen. Aline Yamashita said the bipartisan support reflects the “bipartisan spirit.”