US VIRGIN ISLANDS– During Wednesday’s Government House press briefing, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. announced a legislative measure to address abandoned and derelict properties throughout the Territory.
The legislation, which is being finalized, aims to provide a means by which derelict and abandoned properties can be fairly and equitably rehabilitated or developed without a change of property ownership.
The Governor’s bill proposes to rely on the judiciary to grant a court-appointed conservator or receiver with the ability to invest in the rehabilitation and development of property the right to develop or rehabilitate and assume management of that property for a period that allows the receiver to recoup a reasonable return on investment before turning the developed property back to its original owner(s).
“We need to know what you’re thinking and have your input as we craft this. This is not some plan to take property away from Virgin Islanders and local families,” Governor Bryan said, “but one to preserve and revitalize properties that need severe rehabilitation.”
Governor Bryan has already held meetings with several stakeholders and plans to continue public outreach on this proposed measure with town hall meetings in the coming weeks.
Detective Delberth Phipps Jr.
At the start of the briefing, Governor Bryan extended condolences to the family of V.I. Police Detective Delberth Phipps Jr, who lost his life in the line of duty Tuesday on St. Thomas.
“I stand here today with a heavy heart, filled with anger and profound sadness, as we mourn the death and the loss of Detective Delberth Phipps Jr.,” Governor Bryan said. “This tragic incident reminds us of the daily risks of our law enforcement officers and what they face in their unwavering commitment to keeping our community safe.”
Governor Bryan visited with Detective Phipps’ family at the hospital. Also, he visited the VIPD precinct, where he saw officers attempting to deal with the loss of their colleague, who made the ultimate sacrifice. Governor Bryan praised officers who exercised restraint in delivering the perpetrator to the hospital.
“To the men and women of the Virgin Islands Police Department and our other law enforcement entities, I want you to know that your dedication and sacrifice to the people of this community and for the people of this community do not go unnoticed,” Governor Bryan said. “I am grateful for your service and unwavering commitment to preserving peace and upholding justice in our community.”
Theft at St. Croix Educational Complex
Governor Bryan asked the community to assist in providing leads to recover about 100 solar panels. Governor Bryan asked the community to assist in providing leads to recover about 100 solar panels stolen from the St. Croix Educational Complex over the weekend. Calling the theft “selfish and uncalled for,” Governor Bryan asked the community to provide the authorities with information that would assist in the return of the resources returned and the arrest of the perpetrators.
USVI Comprehensive Land & Water Use Plan
DPNR Commissioner Jean-Pierre Oriol provided an update on the next round of Town Hall meetings to discuss the development of a USVI Comprehensive Land & Water Use Plan. Meetings will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on:
- St. Thomas July 18 – at Charlotte Amalie High School
- St. John – July 19 at Julius E. Sprauve School
- St. Croix – July 20 in the UVI Great Hall
Commissioner Oriol implored individuals aged 18 to 30 to attend the Town Hall meetings.
“We are shaping the future of your Virgin Islands, and it’s important that your voice be heard,” he said. More information is available at www.planusvi.com
Additionally, Commissioner Oriol urged the boating public to be mindful while navigating territorial waters, as an increasing number of endangered sea turtles are being struck by vessels – especially off the east end of St. Croix.
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