U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS—Governor Albert Bryan Jr., in the spirit of transparency and accountability, today announced that he has received the Public Officials Compensation Study Report from the Virgin Islands Public Officials Compensation Commission (VIPOCC). The report, submitted in accordance with Act No. 7878 and Act No. 8384, outlines adjustments to the compensation of public officials that will take effect January 1, 2025, as mandated by law.
“I want to thank the Virgin Islands Public Officials Compensation Commission for their dedicated work on this comprehensive report,” Governor Bryan said. “As part of my commitment to transparency, I am informing the community of these changes, which are the result of legislation enacted by the Virgin Islands Legislature to address the compensation of public officials in a structured and informed manner.”
The VIPOCC was established under Act No. 7878 and amended by Act No. 8384 to evaluate and recommend adjustments to the salaries of public officials. The Commission’s work included a thorough review of compensation levels in other jurisdictions, comparisons with the private sector, and consideration of the unique responsibilities of public officials in the Virgin Islands.
This report, supported by an independent compensation study conducted by the human resources firm Gallagher, includes recommendations that ensure salaries are competitive and appropriate while aligning with the statutory framework established by the Legislature.
“Our public officials serve critical roles in governing a Territory with unique challenges and responsibilities,” Governor Bryan said. “The adjustments outlined in this report aim to ensure that public service remains a viable option for attracting and retaining skilled professionals while maintaining fairness and fiscal responsibility.”
The Governor emphasized that these adjustments were determined through a structured process defined by law, which included stakeholder input, independent research, and extensive analysis.
“This process reflects the Legislature’s intent to establish a data-driven and transparent approach to public officials’ compensation,” said Governor Bryan. “I remain committed to keeping the community informed and ensuring that governance in the Virgin Islands operates in an open and accountable manner.”
The VIPOCC, appointed in November 2021, faced delays due to funding and procurement processes but successfully delivered the report, which is informed by their research and the prevailing financial circumstances of the Territory. The guiding principles included ensuring competitive compensation, reflecting responsibilities, and aligning with the Territory’s financial realities.
Governor Bryan reiterated his appreciation for the Commission’s efforts and affirmed the importance of implementing the changes responsibly and transparently.
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