THE Department of Lands and Natural Resources has ordered Michael Kileleman to dismantle the “dwelling contraption” he has installed on public land near the shoreline in Garapan, and to vacate the area within 30 days from May 19.
Kileleman’s makeshift dwelling is made of tarp and pallets and is located near the 13 Fishermen Memorial on Beach Road. He is also raising three goats in the area.
In a notice dated May 19, DLNR Secretary Anthony Benavente told Kileleman, that during a recent on-site inspection conducted by DLNR-Division of Parks and Recreation park rangers, “it was revealed that you are utilizing a portion of the Garapan shoreline beach park public land for your residential dwelling purposes.”
“Please be advised that this is an unauthorized use of public land,” Benavente added. “DLNR has no records authorizing you to use any portion of public land for these purposes.”
Moreover, “this activity is in violation of the DPR’s regulations prohibiting camping of unlimited duration,” Benavente said.
“Therefore, you must immediately vacate the beach park public land within 30 days of receipt of this letter,” he added. “You must completely remove all improvements, personal property, and belongings off the public land property.”
Benavente said if Kileleman does not vacate the area within 30 days, DLNR will initiate legal action against him.
“If legal action is commenced, we will seek all remedies allowed by law, including the cost of removal of improvements, personal property, attorney fees and costs.”
Asked for comment, Kileleman refused to be interviewed and asked that he be left alone. “I will deal with it,” he added.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources has issued a notice to Michael Kileleman to dismantle the “dwelling contraption” he has installed on public land near the shoreline in Garapan, and to vacate the area.
Photo by Bryan Manabat