Supreme Court Upholds Zoning Board Approval for Saipan Auto Dealership Project

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Saipan, CNMI – The Supreme Court of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands has affirmed a Superior Court’s decision upholding the Commonwealth Zoning Board’s approval of a conditional use permit for Atkins Kroll Saipan, Inc. to construct and operate a car dealership and vehicle repair facility in Puerto Rico, Saipan.

The appeal was filed by ANAKS Ocean View Hill Saipan Homeowners’ Association, Ltd., which represents residents living near the proposed project site. The association argued that the Zoning Board did not comply with notice and hearing requirements under the Saipan Zoning Law and the Commonwealth Administrative Procedure Act and that the Board acted improperly in approving the permit.

In its decision, the Supreme Court concluded that the Zoning Board followed the procedures required by law. The Court found that notice of the public hearings was properly provided and that ANAKS and other members of the community were allowed to present concerns about the project during the Board’s proceedings. The opinion emphasized that judicial review of administrative decisions is limited and deferential.

The Court also determined that the Board acted within its authority when it approved the permit subject to conditions addressing issues raised during the hearings. After reviewing the administrative record, the Court concluded that the Board considered the relevant zoning factors and reasonably explained its decision. Finding no reversible error, the Supreme Court affirmed the judgment of the Superior Court.

The opinion was issued by Chief Justice Alexandro C. Castro, joined by Justice Pro Tempore Robert J. Torres, Jr., and Justice Pro Tempore F. Philip Carbullido.

The full opinion can be read on the Law Revision Commission website: https://cnmilaw.org/pdf/supreme/2026-MP-01.pdf

2026-PR-09

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 13, 2029

This press release has been prepared by court staff for the convenience of the public. For further information, contact the Supreme Court at Supreme.Court@NMIJudiciary.gov