NAHA, Okinawa Pref. -- Nago Mayor Tateo Kishimoto on March 9 reiterated in the city assembly that he will follow Gov. Masahide Ota's judgment concerning the government's plan to build an offshore military helicopter facility off Camp Schwab.
Ota expressed his opposition to the plan shortly before the Nago mayoral election last month. Kishimoto was backed by local residents who support the plan.
"The heliport question has now reached a stage where judgment must be left to the governor. I had earlier said that I would follow his judgment. I still hold this thinking," Kishimoto said.
He also expressed hope that the prefectural and central governments will discuss the matter.
He said that the starting point of the heliport issue is what to do with Futenma Air Station in Ginowan.