AGP Executive Report

Deep-Sea Mining Push: BOEM is moving ahead with a proposed lease auction covering about 31.5 million acres around American Samoa, with a tentative Nov. 19 date—exploration only at first, but critics warn it can still accelerate momentum toward extraction. Local Environmental & Public Input: Eighteen community groups filed a Supreme Court amicus brief urging the Air Force to follow federal environmental and public participation rules for open detonation of dangerous explosives near ecologically and culturally significant areas. Airport Operations Update: Port Administration American Samoa and Samoa Airways are coordinating recovery after a runway deviation at Fitiuta Airport; NTSB has released the aircraft for recovery and the runway is back to normal operations. Fire Safety Scrutiny: The Senate Public Safety Committee questioned July fire response failures, including reports of delayed arrival and dry hydrants, with subpoenas sent to explain negligence concerns. Agriculture Conservation: The American Samoa Soil & Water Conservation District and USDA NRCS invite the public to an Aug. 18 Local Working Group meeting to shape conservation priorities and funding. Cybersecurity Alert: The Department of Education warned staff about rising phishing emails targeting ASDOE accounts and urged reporting and deleting suspicious messages. Cost Pressures: American Samoa’s inflation rate rose to 2.3% in Q2 (April–June), with transportation the biggest driver and some food items still fluctuating.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. is moving from talk to machinery for seabed minerals, creating a Marine Minerals Administration and advancing lease plans tied to American Samoa—even as UNCLOS bans unilateral mining in international waters. American Samoa Lease Sale: BOEM’s proposed auction covers about 31.5 million acres near American Samoa, with a Nov. 19, 2026 date; leases would enable exploration steps but commercial mining would still need later approvals. Church Opposition: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining, urging precautionary, science-based ocean governance to protect biodiversity, fisheries, and Indigenous culture. Fire Safety Scrutiny: The Senate Public Safety Committee questioned the Fire Division after July fires, citing slow response and dry hydrants; DSAR and ASPA officials pointed to staffing limits and hydrant-check rules. Coast Guard Station Request: Gov. Pulaalii Pula reaffirmed a formal push for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa to strengthen patrols, search-and-rescue, and maritime enforcement. Local Costs: American Samoa’s inflation rose to 2.3% in Q2 2026, with transportation the biggest driver and some food items like turkey wings up sharply.

Deep-Sea Mining: The U.S. plans to auction about 33 million acres of seabed near American Samoa for mineral exploration on Nov. 19, 2026, even as major environmental data gaps remain; the move would allow surveys and sampling, not commercial mining, and is drawing fresh opposition from Pacific voices. Local Governance & Safety: The Senate Public Safety Committee grilled American Samoa’s Fire Division after July fires, focusing on reports that crews arrived after homes were destroyed and that nearby hydrants had no water; DSAR says staffing limits and an ASPA policy restricting hydrant checks are part of the problem. Community & Food Systems: The Children’s Healthy Living Center of Excellence at UH Mānoa is marking 15 years of work improving childhood nutrition and health across Hawaiʻi and U.S. territories including American Samoa. Politics: The American Samoa Democratic Party endorsed Sandra King-Young for Delegate to the U.S. House, citing rising costs, healthcare needs, education challenges, and ocean threats. Aviation Update: Port Administration American Samoa says the runway excursion involving a Samoa Airways Twin Otter at Fitiuta Airport is released from NTSB hold; the runway is open and recovery continues. Sports (Regional): American Samoa’s team played in the International Cup softball in Oklahoma City, with U.S. Elite winning a run-rule game.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. plans to auction about 33 million acres of deep-ocean around American Samoa for mineral exploration, with a Nov. 19, 2026 sale date and only preliminary exploration allowed—while critics point to major environmental data gaps. Local Opposition: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in/near the territory’s waters and EEZ, citing ecological, cultural, and scientific uncertainty concerns. Community Mobilization: A “Miss Abyss Deep Sea Defense Tour” is inviting residents to post photos and videos using a cutout to build public support against deep-sea mining. Public Safety & Utilities: A Senate hearing heard disputes over fire hydrant testing—DSAR says it can’t check hydrants under an ASPA policy, while ASPA wants DSAR metered and coordinated to avoid water-pressure impacts. Cost of Living: American Samoa’s inflation rose to 2.3% in Q2 (Apr–Jun 2026), with transportation costs leading increases and some food items falling. Aviation Update: Port Administration says the runway excursion at Fitiuta Airport involving Samoa Airways is cleared by the NTSB for investigation release, with recovery and follow-up continuing. Sports & Culture: Guam opened the Oceania Volleyball Championships with a win over the Cook Islands, while American Samoa’s softball team played in the International Cup in Oklahoma City. Media Industry: South Seas Broadcasting GM Joey Cummings is a finalist for the NAB Marconi “Legendary Radio Manager of the Year” award.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management is moving ahead with a proposed Nov. 19, 2026 auction of up to 33 million acres of deep ocean around American Samoa for mineral exploration, even as critics point to major environmental data gaps; bidders would only be allowed to do surveys and sampling, with any future extraction requiring later approvals and reviews. Faith-Based Opposition: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa formally adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in or near the territory’s waters and EEZ, citing ecological, cultural, and scientific uncertainty. Local Public Safety & Infrastructure: Governor Pulaalii Pula reaffirmed a formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa to strengthen patrols, maritime enforcement, and search-and-rescue. Aviation Update: Port Administration American Samoa said the NTSB cleared the Samoa Airways runway excursion case at Fitiuta Airport for continued local investigation and recovery planning, with normal flights resuming. Cost Pressures: American Samoa’s inflation rate rose to 2.3% in Q2 (April–June 2026), with transportation costs leading and some food items falling while others—like turkey wings—jumped. Community & Industry Recognition: South Seas Broadcasting GM Joey Cummings was named a finalist for NAB’s Marconi “Legendary Radio Manager of the Year,” highlighting local media leadership.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The new U.S. Marine Minerals Administration is moving toward a deep-sea mining lease sale tied to American Samoa waters, with a Nov. 19 lease sale plan and 20-year rights—prompting fresh local and church opposition. Faith & Community Response: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining, citing ecological, cultural, and scientific uncertainty concerns. Local Governance & Public Safety: Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula reaffirmed a formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa to strengthen maritime security, search-and-rescue, and enforcement. Infrastructure & Costs: AS inflation rose to 2.3% in Q2 (April–June 2026), with transportation the biggest driver and some food items up sharply. Aviation Update: Port Administration says the Fitiuta Airport runway excursion involving a Samoa Airways Twin Otter is released from NTSB hold; runway is open and recovery coordination continues. Industry & People: American Samoa’s Democratic Party endorsed Sandra King–Young for Delegate to the U.S. House, framing it around healthcare, education, rising costs, and ocean threats. Aviation/Travel Disruption: A Senate daylight-saving bill is stuck, so most Americans still “fall back” Nov. 1, 2026—creating a transatlantic scheduling headache for travelers. Sports & Regional Spotlight: Guam hosts the Oceania Volleyball Championships Aug. 3–9 with American Samoa among 16 teams. Media Recognition: Joey Cummings, South Seas Broadcasting GM in Pago Pago, is a finalist for the NAB Marconi “Legendary Radio Manager of the Year.”

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration says it plans a Nov. 19 lease sale for deep-sea mining in federal waters off American Samoa, with 20-year rights potentially covering about 127,500 square kilometers; the governor gets 60 days to comment, but the sale isn’t guaranteed. Religious Opposition: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in or near the territory’s waters and EEZ, citing ecological risk, cultural harm, and scientific uncertainty. Local Governance & Costs: American Samoa’s inflation rate rose to 2.3% in Q2 (Apr–Jun 2026), with transportation the biggest driver; the Food group fell overall, though some items like turkey wings jumped. Public Safety: Governor Pulaalii Pula reaffirmed a formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa to strengthen patrols, law enforcement, and search-and-rescue. Infrastructure Oversight: A Senate Public Safety hearing addressed fire hydrant testing and water pressure, with ASPA saying DSAR tests must be coordinated and metered. Aviation Update: Port Administration American Samoa said the NTSB released its initial hold after a runway excursion at Fitiuta Airport involving a Samoa Airways Twin Otter; the runway is open and recovery is underway. Industry Recognition: South Seas Broadcasting GM Joey Cummings was named a finalist for NAB’s Marconi Award for Legendary Radio Manager of the Year. Sports & Community: American Samoa’s team played in the International Cup softball tournament, while FCCLA chapters across the region earned national recognition.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration says it plans a Nov. 19 lease sale for seabed mining in federal waters off American Samoa, with potential 20-year leases and a 60-day comment window for the governor—despite warnings from opponents about major, hard-to-reverse marine impacts. Local Opposition: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa formally ratified a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in or near the territory’s waters and EEZ, citing ecological, cultural, and scientific uncertainty concerns. Maritime Safety Request: Gov. Pulaalii Nikolao Pula reaffirmed a formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa, including cutters and personnel based at Pago Pago Harbor, amid worries about trafficking and other transnational crime. Aviation Update: Port Administration American Samoa reported the NTSB has released the Samoa Airways runway-excursion aircraft from its investigative hold; the runway is open and recovery steps are underway. Cost Pressures: American Samoa’s inflation rate rose to 2.3% in Q2 (April–June 2026), with transportation the biggest expenditure driver and mixed movement in food prices. Infrastructure Funding: The Department of Public Works received $19.3 million in FY2026 BUILD grant funding to rebuild and modernize Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli. Public Safety Utilities: A Senate hearing addressed fire hydrant testing and water-pressure impacts, with ASPA and DSAR discussing who should meter and conduct hydrant checks. Politics & Jobs: The American Samoa Democratic Party endorsed Sandra King–Young for Delegate to the U.S. House, while a separate federal hiring explainer highlighted limited exceptions for non-U.S. citizens in competitive service roles. Media Industry: South Seas Broadcasting’s Joey Cummings was named a finalist for NAB’s Marconi “Legendary Radio Manager of the Year.”

Aviation & Safety: Port Administration American Samoa says the NTSB has cleared the Samoa Airways Twin Otter runway excursion at Fitiuta Airport (July 28); the runway is open, recovery is underway, and a charter flight is set to support the ongoing investigation. Cost of Living: AS inflation rose to 2.3% in Q2 (Apr–Jun 2026), with Transportation the biggest driver (+17.2% annually) while the Food group fell annually (-1.5%) even as some items like turkey wings jumped (+22.4%). Public Safety & Utilities: A Senate Public Safety Committee hearing highlighted disputes over fire hydrant testing—DSAR says it can’t check hydrants under an ASPA policy, while ASPA wants DSAR metered and coordinated to avoid water-pressure drops. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa formally opposed deep-sea mining in/near AS waters and EEZ, citing ecological, cultural, and scientific uncertainty concerns. Infrastructure Investment: DPW secured a $19.3 million FY2026 BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli, covering roadway, drainage, and traffic-safety upgrades. Sports & Community: In the International Cup softball tournament, U.S. Women’s Elite beat American Samoa 10–3 in a run-rule finish; American Samoa also competed in the broader International Cup slate. Media Industry: South Seas Broadcasting VP/GM Joey Cummings was named a finalist for Legendary Radio Manager of the Year in the 2026 NAB Marconi Awards.

International Cup Softball: The U.S. Women’s Elite beat American Samoa 10-3 in a run-rule finish, with Morgan Zerkle driving the win for Team USA. Inflation & Fuel Costs: American Samoa’s Q2 inflation rate rose to 2.3%, with transportation still the biggest driver; food costs were mixed, including a sharp drop in eggs. Maritime Safety & Security: Gov. Pulaalii reaffirmed a formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa, citing concerns about narcotics trafficking and transnational crime. Aviation Incident Update: Port Administration says the Fitiuta Airport runway excursion involving Samoa Airways is cleared for normal operations after the NTSB released the aircraft from its investigative hold. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in/near the territory’s waters and EEZ. Infrastructure Funding: DPW received a $19.3M FY2026 BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli. Public Safety Utilities: A Senate committee hearing addressed disputes over fire hydrant testing and whether DSAR should be metered for water use. Local Industry Recognition: South Seas Broadcasting GM Joey Cummings was named a finalist for Legendary Radio Manager of the Year in the NAB Marconi Awards. Policy & Governance: Key FY ’27 defense and farm bills affecting AS stalled in the U.S. Senate amid partisan fights ahead of midterms.

Maritime Safety & Aviation: Port Administration American Samoa says the NTSB has cleared its initial investigation into Tuesday’s runway excursion by Samoa Airways’ Twin Otter at Fitiuta Airport; the runway is open, flights resumed, and PAAS will keep coordinating recovery and onsite checks with Samoa Airways. Local Economy & Prices: American Samoa’s inflation rate rose to 2.3% in Q2 (April–June 2026), with Transportation the biggest expenditure driver; Food fell overall year-to-date, but some items like turkey wings jumped sharply. Coast Guard Presence: Gov. Pulaalii Nikolao Pula reaffirmed a formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa, including cutters and personnel based at Pago Pago Harbor, citing concerns about narcotics trafficking and other transnational crime. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa ratified a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in/near the territory’s waters and EEZ, while a separate “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration urged federal decision-makers to listen to Samoan voices. Infrastructure Funding: DPW secured a $19.3 million FY2026 BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli, targeting roadway rehab, drainage, and traffic-safety upgrades. Community & Politics: The American Samoa Democratic Party endorsed Sandra King–Young for Delegate to the U.S. House. Broadcast Industry: South Seas Broadcasting VP/GM Joey Cummings is a finalist for Legendary Radio Manager of the Year at the 2026 NAB Marconi Awards.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Interior Department’s Marine Minerals Administration is proposing the first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in the world, with a tentative Nov. 19, 2026 auction for 20 years of rights across 31+ million acres off American Samoa—drawing sharp criticism from environmental groups and scientists. Faith & Community Opposition: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in/near the territory’s waters and EEZ, citing ecological, cultural, and long-term risks. Local Protest: “Stand with the Moana” brought youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and community leaders to the Utulei shoreline to oppose proposed federal deep-sea mining leases. Local Governance & Roads: American Samoa’s Department of Public Works won a $19.3M FY2026 BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli, targeting safety, drainage, and corridor upgrades. Territory Budget Review: As the Fono begins FY2027 budget review, lawmakers face questions over whether proposed local revenue figures account for debt service and other pledged revenues, with the plan totaling about $789.3M. Regional Sports: Guam is set to host the inaugural Oceania Volleyball Championships Aug. 3–9, with American Samoa among 16 national teams competing. Radio Industry Note: Joey Cummings of South Seas Broadcasting Inc. (Pago Pago) was named a finalist for Legendary Radio Manager of the Year in the 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Awards.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The Trump administration is moving toward the first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in the world, with a proposed auction of 20-year mining rights in federal waters off American Samoa (lease sale tentatively set for Nov. 19, 2026), drawing sharp criticism from environmental groups and scientists who warn of irreversible harm to marine life and Samoan livelihoods. Local Opposition Grows: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa passed a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in/near the territory’s waters and EEZ, and a “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration in Utulei brought youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and community leaders together to urge the federal government to stop the lease sale. Diplomatic Response: U.S. Ambassador Jared Novelly, presenting credentials to Samoa’s head of state, said the U.S. will respect Samoa’s position on seabed mining and framed the issue as “seabed harvesting” that should be handled under Samoan law. Infrastructure Funding: American Samoa’s Department of Public Works won a $19.3 million FY2026 BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli, including roadway rehab, drainage upgrades, and traffic-safety improvements. Fono Budget Review: As the Fono begins FY2027 budget review, lawmakers face questions over local revenue figures versus debt service and pledged revenues, with the proposed total spending plan reported around $789.3 million. Sports & Community: Guam will host the Oceania Volleyball Championships Aug. 3–9 with American Samoa among 16 national teams, while a local FCCLA presence continues to highlight youth leadership across the region.

Deep-Sea Mining Push Meets Local Backlash: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in or near the territory’s waters and EEZ, citing ecological, cultural, scientific uncertainty, and intergenerational justice concerns. Federal Lease Sale Plan: The Trump administration’s Marine Minerals Administration is moving toward a deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa, with an auction tentatively set for Nov. 19, 2026—drawing criticism from environmental advocates and scientists. Diplomatic Response: U.S. Ambassador Jared Novelly said he would respect Samoa’s position on seabed mining while framing the issue as a conversation and offering to connect local leaders with environmental and industry experts. Community Mobilization: A “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration brought youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and conservation advocates together to oppose proposed federal deep-sea mining leases. Infrastructure Funding: The Department of Public Works won a $19.3 million FY2026 BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli, including drainage and traffic-safety upgrades. Local Governance & Economy: Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula outlined FY2027 budget priorities aimed at long-term economic resilience as federal pandemic aid winds down, while the Fono begins reviewing the proposed ~$789.3 million spending plan. Public Safety Tech Policy: U.S. attorneys general urged the FCC to strengthen “Know Your Customer” rules to curb illegal robocalls, focusing on originating voice service providers. Industry & Skills: American Samoa Community College’s ACNR Division opened its renovated Fale Samoa to boost community-focused research, funded through USDA NIFA support. Aviation Incident: Reports say a Samoa Airways aircraft veered off the runway in American Samoa.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The Trump administration is moving toward the first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in the world, with a proposed auction of 20 years of mining rights in federal waters off American Samoa (lease sale tentatively set for Nov. 19, 2026), drawing sharp criticism from environmental advocates and scientists who warn of irreversible harm to marine life and Samoan ocean livelihoods. Local Opposition Grows: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa formally adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining, and a “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration gathered youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and community leaders to urge the federal government to stop the lease sale. Federal Oversight Debate: Attorneys and local advocates say the process is being fast-tracked and note the proposed lease would not include revenue sharing with the territory, while urging American Samoa to engage in the federal review. Infrastructure Boost: American Samoa’s Department of Public Works won a $19.3 million FY2026 BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli, including roadway rehabilitation, drainage upgrades, and traffic-safety improvements. Public Safety/Comms: U.S. attorneys general, including New York AG Letitia James and others, are urging the FCC to strengthen “Know Your Customer” rules to curb illegal robocalls. Local Media Recognition: South Seas Broadcasting Inc. manager Joey Cummings of Pago Pago was named a finalist for Legendary Radio Manager of the Year in the 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Awards. Governance & Budget: Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula says the FY2027 budget targets a more resilient, self-sustaining economy as federal pandemic aid winds down, while lawmakers begin reviewing the proposed $789.3 million spending plan.

Deep-Sea Mining Push in American Samoa: The Trump administration’s Marine Minerals Administration is moving toward a first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa, with a proposed Nov. 19, 2026 auction for 20-year rights across more than 31 million acres—sparking strong local and faith-based backlash. Community Opposition Grows: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa and hundreds of delegates at its General Assembly formally opposed deep-sea mining, citing ecological, cultural, and scientific uncertainty and calling for a precautionary approach. Local Voices Take to the Shore: “Stand with the Moana” brought youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and government employees to the Utulei shoreline for a peaceful, values-based demonstration against the proposed federal leases. Federal Process Under Scrutiny: Earthjustice attorneys and local advocates say the lease sale is being fast-tracked and warn it would make American Samoa the first commercial deep-sea mining site worldwide, with concerns about impacts and lack of revenue sharing. Infrastructure Funding for Local Industry: The Department of Public Works received a $19.3 million FY2026 BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli, targeting safety, drainage, and roadway upgrades. Local Governance & Budget Questions: As the Fono begins FY2027 review, lawmakers face key spending and revenue details—especially how local revenue figures relate to debt service and pledged funds—while Governor Pulaalii frames the budget as a shift toward long-term resilience and private-sector growth. Agriculture & Research Capacity: American Samoa Community College’s ACNR Division opened its renovated Fale Samoa, funded by USDA NIFA, to strengthen community-focused research. Communications Safety: Attorneys General including American Samoa’s regionally connected broadcasters’ leadership are urging the FCC to strengthen “Know Your Customer” rules to curb illegal robocalls.