Committee on Land and Municipal Affairs (L&MA)

The Committee on Land and Municipal Affairs holds a vital position within the Kosrae State Legislature, addressing two interconnected areas that are fundamental to Kosraean society and governance: land management and municipal administration.

Land matters occupy a central place in Kosraean culture and economy, where traditional land tenure systems continue to operate alongside modern statutory frameworks. The committee reviews and deliberates on legislation affecting land ownership, property rights, land use planning, and zoning regulations. Given Kosrae’s limited land area and the cultural significance of ancestral lands, the committee plays a crucial role in balancing traditional practices with contemporary development needs, ensuring that land policies respect customary rights while facilitating sustainable economic growth.

The municipal affairs component of the committee’s mandate focuses on the governance and administration of Kosrae’s four municipalities: Lelu, Malem, Tafunsak, and Utwe. The committee examines legislation related to municipal operations, local government structures, and the delivery of services at the community level. This includes oversight of municipal budgets, infrastructure projects, and the relationship between state and municipal authorities.

The committee serves as a bridge between traditional land tenure practices and modern governance requirements, working to ensure that legislative measures respect cultural values while addressing practical challenges of land administration, urban planning, and municipal service delivery across the state.