Nov. 12, 2008 — Lt. Gov. Gregory Francis promised cooperation, not confrontation, with the St. Croix Environmental Association Wednesday night at the organization's annual meeting.
When Paul Chakroff, executive director of SEA, introduced Francis as the guest speaker, he cited three occasions, where that cooperation has already born fruit.
"SEA has had honest, two-way, transparent discussions with developers and the lieutenant governor's office," Chakroff said. "We are making sure our voice is heard at the table on development working through efforts at the lieutenant governor's office."
Francis had been instrumental in calling SEA representatives to the table when environmental issues were the topic, Chakroff said, citing such instances as: when a proposed speed-boat race would have affected nesting sea turtles, when the Palms at Pelican Cove Hotel was to expand in an environmentally friendly way and when testifying on the Williams and Punch development plans.
Francis praised the collaboration with the Palms, SEA and his office when they worked together to protect sea turtles during the hotel expansion. He called it "a model that should be followed not only in the Virgin Islands, but in all the Caribbean."
"We are working towards a better St. Croix, focusing on the needs of this island — home to humans, land and sea animals," Francis said.
He promised continued collaboration between SEA and the present administration.
"As long as I'm lieutenant governor, SEA will be around the table helping to make an environmentally sound community," Francis said. "The Virgin Islands is our home; where we live, work and play. We extend welcome arms to development to create jobs and revenues." But, he added, conservation and stewardship would also be a consideration during the approval process for developments.
During the meeting, Chakroff also discussed a position paper on renewable energy produced by Virgin Islands Renewable Energy Organization. SEA was instrumental in the formation of VIREO and assisted in preparation of this position paper that addresses the alternative-power production choices facing the Water and Power Authority. Members could expect to see more such papers in the future, Chakroff said. The paper can be seen at SEA's website.
The meeting at the Buccaneer's Mermaid Restaurant drew about 75 members from the organization.
The members present also discussed increasing SEA's budget. Grants and membership fees are the major source of funding for SEA.
SEA board member Jim Nealon said the organization has 450 members, but is trying to enlarge the membership base. There is an emphasis on youth membership.
SEA believes that a clean, protected, well- managed natural environment is a legacy from past generations that is as important as cultural and historic heritage. A clean environment is also an asset for the economic growth of the Virgin Islands and for the quality of life for future generations of Virgin Islanders, he added.
SEA's mission is to promote the conservation of environmental resources, provide education, and advocate for environmentally responsible actions that benefit St. Croix.
Chakroff urged members to funnel their environmental concerns through SEA saying those concerns will then get to Francis' office.
Those interested can call 773-1989 for more information about SEA.
