Discussion focuses on exclusivity provision as Governor seeks progress in the coming weeks
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. met Wednesday with members of the 36th Legislature, led by Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance Chairman Senator Novelle E. Francis Jr., to further discuss the proposed agreement between the Government of the Virgin Islands and Southland Gaming VI to rebuild the Randall “Doc” James Racetrack on St. Croix and operate and promote horse racing at both that facility and the Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack on St. Thomas.
The discussion focused on the agreement’s exclusivity clause and concerns presented by the Legislature for the Governor’s team to consider. Senator Francis explained that the meeting provided an opportunity to review those concerns and advance consideration of the gaming and horse racing agreement, which was submitted to the Legislature and assigned to his committee.
In attendance were Senate President Milton E. Potter and Senators Novelle E. Francis Jr., Kenneth Gittens, Avery Lewis, Kurt Vialet, Angel Bolques Jr., Carla Joseph, Dwayne DeGraff, Marise James, Clifford Joseph, Marvin Blyden, Alma Francis Heyliger and Hubert Frederick.
Governor Bryan thanked the lawmakers for their participation and feedback, emphasizing the value of dialogue focused on ratifying the agreement to support the return of horse racing on St. Croix and its continued development across the Territory. He said he looks forward to the Legislature taking up the agreement during its next legislative session in November.
“Horse racing means a great deal to the people of the Virgin Islands, and especially to the owners, trainers, jockeys and fans who have kept this tradition alive,” Governor Bryan said. “I thank Senator Francis and the senators who joined us for sharing their concerns and helping us work through this issue. We owe the community a serious effort to find a way forward, and I am hopeful we can see movement in the coming weeks.”
The Governor reiterated his commitment to working with the Legislature to address outstanding concerns and advance the agreement toward ratification.
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