With their “proven record”, Gov. Lolo Matalasi Moliga has re-nominated all five current board members of the American Samoa Power Authority for another term, as ASPA has shown successes in the last four years, including the powering of the entire island of Ta’u, Manu’a by solar power and plans for Ofu island by next month.

Local law calls for a five-member ASPA board, which is appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Fono for four-year terms. The law states that at least two members shall be experienced in the management of electric utilities, at least one have a financial background and at least one have a legal background. No fewer than two members shall be from outside American Samoa.

In a Mar. 17 letter, the governor re-nominated Fonoti Perelini (the current board chairman who had served in the management level of ASPA several years ago), Peter Crispin, Isabel Hudson, Daniel King and Solip Hong.

“Each of the nominees brings valuable experience to the ASPA board, foremost their experience serving on the board in recent years,” the governor wrote. “Aside from this most pertinent experience, each brings expertise that has benefited ASPA greatly.”

According to the governor, Fonoti brings years of experience in power and water utility management in independent Samoa, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

For Crispin, he is the owner of several successful local businesses, has experience in direct power generation and alternative energy production, the governor explained.

Mrs. Hudson, said Lolo, is also a successful businessperson, works in the local shipping industry, with customers who are major fuel purchasers.

King is both a certified public accountant and an attorney providing valuable financial and legal experience.

Hong is a successful business owner who is financially astute and market savvy, according to the governor.

“These individuals have a proven record in their personal dealings and with ASPA. They are keenly qualified to continue their work of strengthening ASPA,” the governor wrote to the Fono leaders and asked the Legislature for favorable consideration of the nominees.

The nominations are now being prepared for introduction soon in both the Senate and House.

Local statute states that the governor designates the ASPA board chairman annually from among the membership of the board, who selects its vice-chairman. According to the statute, compensation rate for each board member per year is $5,000 and the chairman’s compensation  is set at $6,000 annually. Travel, lodging and meal expenses will be provided for off-island directors.