The CNMI Department of Public Lands is reminding land claimants that they may opt for a land exchange instead of waiting for delayed monetary compensation.
The program, administered by DPL’s Land Claims Division, allows eligible individuals to receive public land equivalent to the fair market value of their government-acquired property. Compensation delays have persisted due to limited funding from the CNMI General Fund.
The total amount of compensation due to the public now stands at $10,739,800.16, reflecting both longstanding and newly validated claims. These claims stem from government takings for public purposes, including right-of-way acquisitions, and have undergone extensive appraisal processes, negotiations, and in some cases judicial actions.
“Claimants who have been waiting for land compensation may qualify to switch to a land exchange,” said Terry Guerrero, land claims director. “This provides an opportunity to receive a tangible asset now, rather than waiting for funding that remains subject to budgetary constraints.”
Currently, 61.2 hectares of public land in Obyan, Saipan are available for exchange, though this area is reserved for Saipan residents. Exchanges in Rota and Tinian are contingent on the availability of public lands in those districts.
Claimants whose original property was valued at more than $5,000 at the time of acquisition may be eligible. They may choose to retain or sell the exchanged land to recover the value of their claim.
DPL encourages individuals with pending settlement offers to contact the Land Compensation Office at (670) 234-3751 ext. 128, Visit the DPL Office, 2nd Floor, Joeten Building, Dandan, or local district office in Rota or Tinian.
