Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula has made recent appointments to the Board of Directors and appointed the new Territorial Historic Preservation Officer. 

Outlined in his general memoranda in the span of a week, the Governor appointed Ms. Tumau Lokeni – Territorial Historic Preservation Officer for the American Samoa Historic Preservation Office (ASHPO).

The American Samoa Historic Preservation Office (ASHPO) was established in response to the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Its primary objective is to identify, evaluate, register, interpret, and safeguard the historic and cultural properties of American Samoa, which include a diverse range of sites from star mounds to shipwrecked vessels.

ASHPO offers a comprehensive array of services to communities and preservation organizations while maintaining an inventory of historic properties. The office is responsible for reviewing nominations for the National Register of Historic Places and overseeing the management of designated sites on that register. In compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, ASHPO assesses all federal undertakings to determine their potential impacts on historic properties.

Additionally, ASHPO positions itself as a service organization committed to collaborating with federal and territorial agencies, village and district councils, as well as private organizations and individuals. It aims to facilitate adherence to relevant federal and territorial historic preservation laws and to enhance community awareness regarding the significance of historic preservation in the context of cultural maintenance.

HEALTH SERVICES REGULATORY BOARD 

Simamao Tuato'o has been officially appointed as a member of the Health Services Regulatory Board (HSRB), effective immediately. In her current capacity as the Director of Nursing at the LBJ Tropical Medical Center, Tuato'o meets the essential statutory requirements that govern the composition of the board.

The governor highlighted Tuato'o's extensive experience and dedication to nursing, noting that her expertise will be invaluable to the board's functions. To adhere to the staggered terms requirement set forth by the governing authorities, she will serve an initial term of two years, with the possibility of reappointment upon completion of that term. According to the memo, 

According to the memo, on October 17, the HSRB conducted a thorough review and voted unanimously to endorse Tuato'o as the most qualified candidate for this critical role. Her appointment is expected to significantly enhance the Territory's oversight and regulatory processes related to nursing licensure, ensuring that high standards of care and professionalism are maintained within the nursing profession. This strategic move reflects the commitment to improving healthcare services and upholding the integrity of nursing practices throughout the Territory.

AMERICAN SAMOA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 

Furthermore, the governor made new appointments to the ASEDA board of Directors to replace those whose terms have expired. The new members include his Cabinet Members: Acting Treasurer Brett B. Butler, Department of Commerce Director Ali'imuamua Magdalene Pepe Petaia, Port Administration Director Barney Sene, and Governor's Representative Earl E. Mokoma, as well as Uaealesi Doris Faumuina-Sipelii.

The only board member who was not replaced is Falenaoti Loi-On Fruean. She will remain on the ASEDA Board due to her term’s expiration on June 30, 2027. Her experience and background will provide continuity in infrastructure and project management, as well as a deep commitment to improving the quality of life for the territory.

Since the Legislature is not currently in session, these recess appointments will take effect immediately. They will expire at the conclusion of the next regular or special session of the Legislature. He said their names will be submitted for confirmation to the Legislature during the next regular session in January 2026. 

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD 

The governor has appointed new members to the Workforce Development Board, a decision made in accordance with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), a federal law aimed at enhancing job training programs and employment opportunities.

In his memorandum, the governor noted the reconstitution of the Workforce Development Board, underscoring that this initiative is essential for aligning with the provisions of WIOA.  Adding that it is crucial as it allocates financial resources to various programs that significantly benefit our Territory, including initiatives for summer youth employment, adult education, and vocational rehabilitation—all of which are designed to help individuals acquire skills and enter the workforce.

Furthermore, the governor highlighted a critical requirement for the ongoing receipt of these funds: maintaining an updated local State Workforce Development Board, as mandated by law. This ensures that the Board remains responsive to the evolving needs of our workforce and community.

The Board is composed of the governor, a senator appointed by the President of the Senate, and a representative appointed by the Speaker of the House, creating a diverse governance structure. The governor expressed that this reconstitution is strategically designed to empower the Board to fulfill its statutory responsibilities more effectively, enabling it to respond to workforce challenges and better serve the economic interests of our community.

By enhancing the composition and functionality of the Board, the governor aims to foster a more robust and skilled workforce that meets the demands of our local economy. William Spitzenberg will serve as the Chairman, and the members are Tapusalaia Maneafaiga, Onosa'i Faleauto Va'a Jr., Laosamoa Poasa, Nadine Solofa Taufaasau, Patricia Vaivao, Cathie Haleck-Paaga, Folasaitu Sorepa Thomas, Lisa Gebauer, Edward "Kuki" Avegalio, Peter Young, Faiivae luli Godinet, Kuresa Paopao, Sofa'i Tuato’o, Adrian Vasai, Frederick Suisala, Dr. Asenati Umi, Denise Tuitoelau, Donna Achica, Tafaimamao Tupuola, Eileen Tyrell and Edna Noga.