Guam Customs secures funding for new CCTV system and drone program expansion

The 38th Guam Legislature convened on June 13, 2025, to discuss the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, with a focus on enhancing the capabilities of the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency (CQA) and addressing critical infrastructure needs. The meeting highlighted the agency's plans to implement a new CCTV system and expand its drone program, both aimed at improving security and monitoring at key locations such as the airport and port.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the CQA's current access to existing CCTV systems. While the agency has manual access to the systems at the airport and port, officials expressed the need for their own cameras to better fulfill customs mandates. The proposed budget includes approximately $200,000 for the installation of 8 to 12 cameras at strategic locations, with plans for future expansions. This initiative is seen as a necessary complement to the existing surveillance systems, enhancing the agency's operational effectiveness.

The meeting also addressed staffing challenges within the CQA. Currently, the agency is operating with a significant shortfall, with only 60% of the necessary personnel. Officials indicated that they could accommodate up to 30 new recruits in the upcoming fiscal year, a figure that exceeds the 10 additional positions requested in the budget. This increase in staffing is crucial for the agency to meet its operational demands and fulfill its responsibilities effectively.

Another key topic was the ongoing efforts to secure $2 million in federal funding, which is currently tied up in the grant process. Legislators emphasized the importance of navigating federal requirements to ensure that these funds are successfully transferred to the agency. The discussions underscored the complexities involved in securing federal support and the need for continuous engagement with federal agencies to facilitate these processes.

Additionally, the issue of rental payments for the CQA's operations at the airport was raised. Unlike other states, Guam's customs agency is required to pay rent as a tenant, which has raised concerns among legislators about the financial burden this places on the agency. Efforts are underway to seek exemptions from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to alleviate this requirement, reflecting the unique status of Guam's customs operations.

In conclusion, the budget hearing underscored the critical need for enhanced surveillance capabilities and adequate staffing within the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency. As the agency navigates federal funding processes and seeks to address its operational challenges, the discussions highlighted the importance of legislative support in ensuring that Guam's customs operations can effectively meet the demands of security and public safety. The next steps will involve continued advocacy for federal exemptions and the implementation of the proposed budget initiatives.