On Thursday morning, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources held a public hearing via Zoom to consider a zoning map amendment request for a proposed nursing home facility on St. Croix, outlining the legal process and inviting community input before moving forward.
Applicant Andrea L. Christian-Michel outlined her vision for a facility that would offer retirees a place to feel safe, cared for, and at home. She described the project as more than a business venture, emphasizing her desire to create a peaceful setting where elderly residents can live with dignity and comfort.
The property in question is located at Plot No. 395 Estate Whim, Westend Quarter, St.
Croix.
The home would operate within a residential setting, maintaining a scale that blends into the surrounding neighborhood. The facility is expected to provide personalized care support, assistance with daily living activities, and monitoring to ensure residents’ health and safety. Christian-Michel explained that the proposed facility would serve seniors who may no longer be able to live independently but still desire a calm, residential atmosphere.
Her goal, she said, is to provide a supportive space tailored to the needs of aging residents while remaining mindful of the surrounding community.
“I’m praying that everything goes successful so I can begin, and people who are retired and want some place to go and relax could feel at home,” she said.
If approved, the facility would expand the territory’s senior care options and provide another residential alternative for families seeking long-term accommodations for aging loved ones.
During the hearing, Territorial Director Leia LaPlace asked a series of clarifying questions regarding the scope and impact of the project. LaPlace sought details about how the facility would operate within the neighborhood, how construction would be managed, what safeguards would be in place for surrounding residents, and whether the proposal aligns with existing zoning requirements.
LaPlace emphasized the importance of ensuring that development balances community need with neighborhood compatibility, noting that public hearings are designed to allow residents to voice both support and concerns before decisions move forward.
One resident, Hermina Joseph, raised concerns about potential construction impacts, particularly dust and airborne debris affecting nearby homes. Joseph, who shared that she has medical limitations due to metal rods and screws in her spine, asked whether protective mesh barriers would be required around the construction site.
DPNR official Amanda Jackson-Acosta confirmed that best management practices, including dust control measures, are required during construction and that the department would monitor compliance. Residents were encouraged to report any issues should the project move forward.
Planning Technician Gail Pagan, of the Division of Comprehensive and Coastal Zone Planning, chaired the hearing and explained that once the public hearing concludes, DPNR has 30 days to prepare a recommendation report for the commissioner’s signature. After the commissioner signs off, the report is forwarded to the Legislature and the applicant.
The public comment period remains open until March 1. After reviewing submitted comments and evaluating the proposal, DPNR will issue a recommendation that could approve, modify, or deny the zoning request.
