Margibi County — Margibi District #2 Representative, Ivar Jones, on Tuesday presented his second annual legislative report to constituents, outlining activities undertaken during his tenure in the 55th Legislature.
Delivering the report on March 3, Rep. Jones detailed several initiatives carried out over the past year, including what he described as components of a “Sustainable Economic Empowerment” program aimed at supporting residents of the district.
Among the initiatives highlighted was the distribution of “scratch cards” to callers who participated in his radio talk show on Farmington Radio. According to the report, each caller received a one-dollar scratch card, with the total value of the initiative amounting to approximately US$2,400 over the reporting period.
The lawmaker also cited the distribution of Christmas rice, lappas, and children’s gifts during the festive season as part of his broader economic support efforts. He categorized these contributions under the umbrella of sustainable empowerment, noting that they were intended to provide direct assistance to struggling families in the district.
However, elements of the program have drawn criticism from some residents, who argue that such giveaways offer only temporary relief and fall short of promoting long-term economic growth or sustainable development.
Sino Paye, a resident of Margibi District #2, questioned the inclusion of the distributions in the lawmaker’s report.
“Honorable Jones has nothing good to report on; that is why he is including those who call on his show as economic empowerment,” Paye said.
Despite the criticism, Rep. Jones maintained that the initiatives were designed to provide immediate support to constituents while fostering engagement through his radio platform.
The annual report forms part of the lawmaker’s accountability outreach to residents of District #2 as he continues his service in Margibi County.
