July 10, 2003 – The Board of Land Use Appeals could hold a hearing as early as July 29 on a challenge to the Coastal Zone Management permit for the revitalization of the old Ramada Yacht Haven Hotel and Marina and the development of some seven acres of adjacent filled land fronting Long Bay.
On Wednesday, an executive for Insignia Nautica, the parent company of the project developer, IN-USVI, said that despite the delay, "we are hopeful that ultimately our efforts … will be rewarded with a better waterfront."
"While we are disappointed, dismayed and disheartened by what could be a significant delay to the creation of new jobs, the bringing in of new economic development and the improvement of the waterfront, we are determined to press forward as best we can," Elie Feingold, executive vice president of Insignia Nautica and spokesman for IN-USVI, said.
Also on Wednesday, Edward E. Thomas Sr., president and board chair of The West Indian Co., accused the Save Long Bay Coalition members of timing their appeal in hopes of derailing the whole Yacht Haven project.
"This very important project has been halted by the filing of the appeal, as the SLBC group certainly knew and intended it would be," Thomas said in a release. "The employment of people and the involvement of young community members to beautify the long-derelict hotel property — so recently begun — has already been jeopardized by this ill-considered legal maneuver that has no apparent purpose but to delay the benefits of the development for the Virgin Islands."
His reference to "young community members" was to several youth groups who this week began painting a running mural on the protective barrier wall erected between the Yacht Haven buildings destined to be demolished and Long Bay Road.
Further, Thomas said, "The significant additional employment that was to begin, and the crucial benefits to the economy and to the government, have also been abruptly stopped by this single action."
The Save Long Bay Coalition filed its appeal of the CZM permit on Monday, asking the land use board to separate the permit for the hotel redevelopment from the portion covering the filled land. The coalition contends that while the private land project required only CZM committee approval, the filled land, owned by WICO, is held in public trust, and thus a permit for its use requires approval by the Legislature and the governor as well as the CZM committee. The overall permit was approved only by the CZM committee.
The coalition wants the board to order that a separate permit be sought for the filled land, while allowing the hotel and marina redevelopment to proceed, and to require hearings on the application and approval by the Legislature and governor as well as the CZM committee. And it is asking that if the application is approved, that the permit be for no more than 20 years.
Attorney Judith Bourne, who filed the appeal, said in a statement issued earlier this week that the appeal is needed to "allow a suitable evaluation to be made of the commercial development, which was only added to the plan in December of 2002."
IN-USVI is planning to build retail and office facilities on the filled land.
The coalition was formed in 1986 to fight the dredging of the St. Thomas harbor which produced the very filled land that is now the subject of debate.
Insignia Nautica officials say they researched the legal issues extensively before entering into an agreement to lease the land from WICO for up to 90 years. They cite a 1989 ruling from the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeal, in a case relating to the dredging, that the filled land was privately owned, not held in public trust. WICO at that time also was privately owned, by Danish interests. However, it was purchased by the V.I. government, which currently owns it, in 1993.
Thomas, like Feingold, said the public trust land issue was settled long ago in federal court. The land in question was conveyed to WICO in October 1987, he said, and the coalition's legal challenge impinges on WICO's right as owner to develop or lease the property.
Echoing similar remarks made on Tuesday by Andrew Farkas, chief executive officer of Insignia Nautica, Thomas also said that the Yacht Haven project "cannot proceed piecemeal. The portion of the development to be constructed on WICO's property is a critical part of the entire plan, and IN-USVI has made clear that it cannot proceed on any part of this project without a clear and reliable confirmation of its right to complete the work as a whole."
Feingold said on Wednesday that the appeal came as contractors working with IN-USVI were about to begin demolishing the derelict Yacht Haven Hotel buildings that have been an eyesore since Hurricane Marilyn devastated the property in 1995.
"The Long Bay Coalition filed an appeal for the upland development of the project, the vast majority of which is covered under a single permit. As a result, we are bound by law and unable to continue developments on the project," Feingold said. "By a matter of simple economics, this makes us unable to continue on with the project in any meaningful way until this issue is resolved."
Michael Law, Board of Land Use Appeal legal counsel, said on Thursday that he has spent the last several days calling board members trying to coordinate a date on which they could meet to hear the case. "We are looking at the 29th of July," he said, dependent on "making sure all the board members can attend."
The board, by law consisting of nine members, currently has seven. "I'm still waiting to hear from one member about whether he can attend," Law said.
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MOTOR VEHICLE BUREAU IS ONCE AGAIN OPERATIONAL
July 10, 2003 – The Motor Vehicle Bureau on St. Thomas was back in full swing on Thursday after being unable to process vehicle registration paperwork for two weeks because of a computer glitch.
Director Lawrence Olive said the computer problem caused a paperwork backlog, but by mid-afternoon Thursday, most people who had been waiting for their vehicle registration paperwork had picked them up.
"The ladies worked very fast to get things in place," he said, noting that the problem affected about 500 registrations.
Meanwhile, Sen. Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg suggested that the MVB become a semi-autonomous agency.
He said would propose a bill to change the bureau's status. The bill is now being written.
The MVB now comes under the Police Department's purview. Police Department spokesman Sgt. Thomas Hannah could not be reached for comment.
Donastorg said in a news release that with semi-autonomy, the bureau would be able to decide when to buy equipment and supplies because it would control its own funds. Therefore, it would be able to render better service to the public. "They now have to wait for appropriations," he said.
Donastorg said that while the Motor Vehicle Bureau now generates about $10 million a year in revenues, that the figure could be upped to $15 million with semi-autonomy.
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Director Lawrence Olive said the computer problem caused a paperwork backlog, but by mid-afternoon Thursday, most people who had been waiting for their vehicle registration paperwork had picked them up.
"The ladies worked very fast to get things in place," he said, noting that the problem affected about 500 registrations.
Meanwhile, Sen. Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg suggested that the MVB become a semi-autonomous agency.
He said would propose a bill to change the bureau's status. The bill is now being written.
The MVB now comes under the Police Department's purview. Police Department spokesman Sgt. Thomas Hannah could not be reached for comment.
Donastorg said in a news release that with semi-autonomy, the bureau would be able to decide when to buy equipment and supplies because it would control its own funds. Therefore, it would be able to render better service to the public. "They now have to wait for appropriations," he said.
Donastorg said that while the Motor Vehicle Bureau now generates about $10 million a year in revenues, that the figure could be upped to $15 million with semi-autonomy.
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MOTOR OIL RECYCLING IGLOOS REOPEN
July 10, 2003 – St. John's oil recycling igloos at the Susannaberg landfill will reopen at 1 p.m. Friday. The igloos, which are only for used motor oil, had been closed since May 30.
Deputy Public Works Commissioner Ira Wade said the igloos needed to be upgraded.
Wade said that federal Environmental Protection Agency rules required Public Works to place a double-walled fence around the igloos to prevent any leaks from escaping. Additionally, the department had to put a cover over the igloos to slow down the deterioration of the plastic igloos.
Wade said that people may put no more than five gallons of oil in the igloos at a time. The oil must come from vehicles, boats or generators.
People must sign a register indicating the date and amount of oil deposited in the igloos.
The igloos are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to noon on weekends and holidays.
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Deputy Public Works Commissioner Ira Wade said the igloos needed to be upgraded.
Wade said that federal Environmental Protection Agency rules required Public Works to place a double-walled fence around the igloos to prevent any leaks from escaping. Additionally, the department had to put a cover over the igloos to slow down the deterioration of the plastic igloos.
Wade said that people may put no more than five gallons of oil in the igloos at a time. The oil must come from vehicles, boats or generators.
People must sign a register indicating the date and amount of oil deposited in the igloos.
The igloos are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to noon on weekends and holidays.
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UVI-CPD TO OFFER REAL ESTATE SALESPERSON'S COURSE
July 10, 2003 – The University of the Virgin Islands' Community and Personal Development Unit will offer the Real Estate Salesperson's Course every Saturday from July 26 to Aug. 23 on the St. Croix Campus. Sessions will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The course is designed to prepare individuals to sit for the Real Estate Salesperson's Licensing Exam or to introduce individuals to a career in real estate. It also helps participants become more knowledgeable property owners, buyers and sellers.
"Buying real estate is probably one of the most significant purchases an individual will undertake," CPD Director Ilene Heyward Garner said. Students enrolled in the course will be taught by experienced real estate agents and will be "provided with the necessary tools to assist home buyers in their decision making," Garner said. Students will be instructed on real estate law, financing, appraisal, contracts and mathematics.
The cost of the course is $450 which includes 38 hours of instruction, manuals and registration fees. There are no prerequisites for the course. However, individuals interested in taking the exam must be sponsored by a real estate broker and must register for the exam with the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs.
Register through July 23. For more information, call UVI's Community and Personal Development Unit at 693-1100 or e-mail dpeters@uvi.edu.
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The course is designed to prepare individuals to sit for the Real Estate Salesperson's Licensing Exam or to introduce individuals to a career in real estate. It also helps participants become more knowledgeable property owners, buyers and sellers.
"Buying real estate is probably one of the most significant purchases an individual will undertake," CPD Director Ilene Heyward Garner said. Students enrolled in the course will be taught by experienced real estate agents and will be "provided with the necessary tools to assist home buyers in their decision making," Garner said. Students will be instructed on real estate law, financing, appraisal, contracts and mathematics.
The cost of the course is $450 which includes 38 hours of instruction, manuals and registration fees. There are no prerequisites for the course. However, individuals interested in taking the exam must be sponsored by a real estate broker and must register for the exam with the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs.
Register through July 23. For more information, call UVI's Community and Personal Development Unit at 693-1100 or e-mail dpeters@uvi.edu.
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BERRY SEEKS FEDERAL INFUSION FOR V.I. SECURITY
July 9, 2003 – Invoking the specter of the Virgin Islands as a potential "Caribbean Pearl Harbor," Sen. Lorraine Berry has told the top undersecretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that she needs federal assurances of clout and cash to develop local initiatives to complement the mandates of the federal agency.
With 175 miles of "porous borders," the territory particularly needs help to establish a federal Border Patrol unit, Berry told Michael Brown, first under secretary for emergency preparedness and response, in a letter dated July 8 and released to the media Wednesday.
Berry, writing as chair of the Legislature's new Public Safety, Judiciary, Homeland Security and Justice Committee, said the Border Patrol presence is needed to "stem the deluge of illegal aliens" and "illegal narcotics transshipment." And federal funds are needed to pay for "detaining, repatriating and/or relocating illegal aliens," she said.
She is drafting enabling legislation to create a V.I. Office of Homeland Security, she said. "Last week, the Homeland Security Council was operationalized locally," she told Brown, "but as you are quite aware, this council can only be a forerunner to a state administrative agency that single-mindedly pursues homeland security."
Although responsibility for defending the nation's maritime borders, airspace and territorial integrity fall under the purview of the federal government, Berry wrote, "some territorial capacity is necessary." She said the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency, the Law Enforcement Planning Commission and the adjutant general of the V.I. National Guard (as the designated "person in charge") are seeking to implement programs to comply with federal mandates.
However, she added, "without a massive infusion of federal resources, training and political support, the territory does not have the capacity to fulfill the federal mandates.
"Certainly, federal oversight is in order."
Citing naval base closings at Roosevelt Roads and on Vieques in Puerto Rico, Berry also called for creation of a U.S. Coast Guard unit to patrol the waters of the Northeastern Caribbean.
She said she is aware that Puerto Rico "is ahead of us in terms of organization and funding," but asked for "equitable treatment in funding, political support and organizational linkages."
The Virgin Islands' "geographical realities force us to request greater attention from the Department of Homeland Security," she wrote. "We do not wish to witness a Caribbean Pearl Harbor due to underestimation of the threats by federal and territorial officials."
Requesting Brown's "intervention as a facilitator" in establishing the V.I. Office of Homeland Security, Berry extended a second invitation to him to visit the territory, going so far as to suggest anytime in August but particularly the 14th to 18th.
She announced in March that Brown had accepted her earlier invitation to make such a visit April 14-15. Subsequently, the United States launched the war against Iraq and that visit was put on hold.
Two weeks ago, a release from the office of Delegate Donna M. Christensen stated that Christensen had recently invited Brown, a lawyer who previously was deputy director and general counsel of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to visit the territory "in the near future."
Berry included Christensen as well as Gov. Charles W. Turnbull in extending her new invitation, saying they all "need the political support of a federal official whose very presence would confer legitimacy and seriousness." At the same time, she said, a visit from Brown would allow the V.I. officials "to familiarize you with our various institutional needs."
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With 175 miles of "porous borders," the territory particularly needs help to establish a federal Border Patrol unit, Berry told Michael Brown, first under secretary for emergency preparedness and response, in a letter dated July 8 and released to the media Wednesday.
Berry, writing as chair of the Legislature's new Public Safety, Judiciary, Homeland Security and Justice Committee, said the Border Patrol presence is needed to "stem the deluge of illegal aliens" and "illegal narcotics transshipment." And federal funds are needed to pay for "detaining, repatriating and/or relocating illegal aliens," she said.
She is drafting enabling legislation to create a V.I. Office of Homeland Security, she said. "Last week, the Homeland Security Council was operationalized locally," she told Brown, "but as you are quite aware, this council can only be a forerunner to a state administrative agency that single-mindedly pursues homeland security."
Although responsibility for defending the nation's maritime borders, airspace and territorial integrity fall under the purview of the federal government, Berry wrote, "some territorial capacity is necessary." She said the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency, the Law Enforcement Planning Commission and the adjutant general of the V.I. National Guard (as the designated "person in charge") are seeking to implement programs to comply with federal mandates.
However, she added, "without a massive infusion of federal resources, training and political support, the territory does not have the capacity to fulfill the federal mandates.
"Certainly, federal oversight is in order."
Citing naval base closings at Roosevelt Roads and on Vieques in Puerto Rico, Berry also called for creation of a U.S. Coast Guard unit to patrol the waters of the Northeastern Caribbean.
She said she is aware that Puerto Rico "is ahead of us in terms of organization and funding," but asked for "equitable treatment in funding, political support and organizational linkages."
The Virgin Islands' "geographical realities force us to request greater attention from the Department of Homeland Security," she wrote. "We do not wish to witness a Caribbean Pearl Harbor due to underestimation of the threats by federal and territorial officials."
Requesting Brown's "intervention as a facilitator" in establishing the V.I. Office of Homeland Security, Berry extended a second invitation to him to visit the territory, going so far as to suggest anytime in August but particularly the 14th to 18th.
She announced in March that Brown had accepted her earlier invitation to make such a visit April 14-15. Subsequently, the United States launched the war against Iraq and that visit was put on hold.
Two weeks ago, a release from the office of Delegate Donna M. Christensen stated that Christensen had recently invited Brown, a lawyer who previously was deputy director and general counsel of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to visit the territory "in the near future."
Berry included Christensen as well as Gov. Charles W. Turnbull in extending her new invitation, saying they all "need the political support of a federal official whose very presence would confer legitimacy and seriousness." At the same time, she said, a visit from Brown would allow the V.I. officials "to familiarize you with our various institutional needs."
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BERRY SEEKS FEDERAL INFUSION FOR V.I. SECURITY
July 9, 2003 – Invoking the specter of the Virgin Islands as a potential "Caribbean Pearl Harbor," Sen. Lorraine Berry has told the top undersecretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that she needs federal assurances of clout and cash to develop local initiatives to complement the mandates of the federal agency.
With 175 miles of "porous borders," the territory is particularly in need of assistance in securing the establishment of a federal Border Patrol unit, Berry told Michael Brown, first under secretary for emergency preparedness and response, in a letter dated July 8. She released the letter to the media on Wednesday.
Berry, writing in her capacity as chair of the Legislature's new Public Safety, Judiciary, Homeland Security and Justice Committee, said the Border Patrol presence is needed to "stem the deluge of illegal aliens" and "illegal narcotics transshipment." And federal funds are needed for the costs of "detaining, repatriating and/or relocating illegal aliens," she said.
She said she is drafting enabling legislation for the creation of a V.I. Office of Homeland Security. "Last week, the Homeland Security Council was operationalized locally," she told Brown, "but as you are quite aware, this council can only be a forerunner to a state administrative agency that single-mindedly pursues homeland security."
Although responsibility for defending the nation's maritime borders, airspace and territorial integrity fall under the purview of the federal government, Berry wrote, "some territorial capacity is necessary." She said the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency, the Law Enforcement Planning Commission and the adjutant general of the V.I. National Guard (as the designated "person in charge") are seeking to implement programs to comply with federal mandates.
However, she added, "Frankly, without a massive infusion of federal resources, training and political support, the territory does not have the capacity to fulfill the federal mandates." And therefore, she added, "Certainly, federal oversight is in order."
Citing naval base closings at Roosevelt Roads and on Vieques in Puerto Rico, Berry said there is also a need for the creation of a U.S. Coast Guard unit to patrol the waters of the Northeastern Caribbean.
Stating further that she is aware that Puerto Rico "is ahead of us in terms of organization and funding," she said she is seeking "equitable treatment in funding, political support and organizational linkages."
The Virgin Islands' "geographical realities force us to request greater attention from the Department of Homeland Security," she wrote. "We do not wish to witness a Caribbean Pearl Harbor due to underestimation of the threats by federal and territorial officials."
Saying she needs Brown's "intervention as a facilitator" in the establishment of the V.I. Office of Homeland Security, Berry extended a second invitation to him to visit the territory, going so far as to suggest anytime in August but the 14th through 18th.
She announced in March that Brown had accepted her earlier invitation to make such a visit April 14-15. Subsequently, the United States launched the war against Iraq and that visit was put on hold.
Two weeks ago, a release from the office of Delegate Donna M. Christensen stated that Christensen had recently invited Brown, a lawyer who previously served as deputy director and general counsel of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to visit the territory "in the near future."
Berry included Christensen as well as Gov. Charles W. Turnbull in extending her new invitation, saying they all "need the political support of a federal official whose very presence would confer legitimacy and seriousness." At the same time, she said, a visit from Brown would allow the V.I. officials "to familiarize you with our various institutional needs."
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
With 175 miles of "porous borders," the territory is particularly in need of assistance in securing the establishment of a federal Border Patrol unit, Berry told Michael Brown, first under secretary for emergency preparedness and response, in a letter dated July 8. She released the letter to the media on Wednesday.
Berry, writing in her capacity as chair of the Legislature's new Public Safety, Judiciary, Homeland Security and Justice Committee, said the Border Patrol presence is needed to "stem the deluge of illegal aliens" and "illegal narcotics transshipment." And federal funds are needed for the costs of "detaining, repatriating and/or relocating illegal aliens," she said.
She said she is drafting enabling legislation for the creation of a V.I. Office of Homeland Security. "Last week, the Homeland Security Council was operationalized locally," she told Brown, "but as you are quite aware, this council can only be a forerunner to a state administrative agency that single-mindedly pursues homeland security."
Although responsibility for defending the nation's maritime borders, airspace and territorial integrity fall under the purview of the federal government, Berry wrote, "some territorial capacity is necessary." She said the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency, the Law Enforcement Planning Commission and the adjutant general of the V.I. National Guard (as the designated "person in charge") are seeking to implement programs to comply with federal mandates.
However, she added, "Frankly, without a massive infusion of federal resources, training and political support, the territory does not have the capacity to fulfill the federal mandates." And therefore, she added, "Certainly, federal oversight is in order."
Citing naval base closings at Roosevelt Roads and on Vieques in Puerto Rico, Berry said there is also a need for the creation of a U.S. Coast Guard unit to patrol the waters of the Northeastern Caribbean.
Stating further that she is aware that Puerto Rico "is ahead of us in terms of organization and funding," she said she is seeking "equitable treatment in funding, political support and organizational linkages."
The Virgin Islands' "geographical realities force us to request greater attention from the Department of Homeland Security," she wrote. "We do not wish to witness a Caribbean Pearl Harbor due to underestimation of the threats by federal and territorial officials."
Saying she needs Brown's "intervention as a facilitator" in the establishment of the V.I. Office of Homeland Security, Berry extended a second invitation to him to visit the territory, going so far as to suggest anytime in August but the 14th through 18th.
She announced in March that Brown had accepted her earlier invitation to make such a visit April 14-15. Subsequently, the United States launched the war against Iraq and that visit was put on hold.
Two weeks ago, a release from the office of Delegate Donna M. Christensen stated that Christensen had recently invited Brown, a lawyer who previously served as deputy director and general counsel of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to visit the territory "in the near future."
Berry included Christensen as well as Gov. Charles W. Turnbull in extending her new invitation, saying they all "need the political support of a federal official whose very presence would confer legitimacy and seriousness." At the same time, she said, a visit from Brown would allow the V.I. officials "to familiarize you with our various institutional needs."
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
BERRY SEEKS FEDERAL INFUSION FOR V.I. SECURITY
July 9, 2003 – Invoking the specter of the Virgin Islands as a potential "Caribbean Pearl Harbor," Sen. Lorraine Berry has told the top undersecretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that she needs federal assurances of clout and cash to develop local initiatives to complement the mandates of the federal agency.
With 175 miles of "porous borders," the territory particularly needs help to establish a federal Border Patrol unit, Berry told Michael Brown, first under secretary for emergency preparedness and response, in a letter dated July 8 and released to the media Wednesday.
Berry, writing as chair of the Legislature's new Public Safety, Judiciary, Homeland Security and Justice Committee, said the Border Patrol presence is needed to "stem the deluge of illegal aliens" and "illegal narcotics transshipment." And federal funds are needed to pay for "detaining, repatriating and/or relocating illegal aliens," she said.
She is drafting enabling legislation to create a V.I. Office of Homeland Security, she said. "Last week, the Homeland Security Council was operationalized locally," she told Brown, "but as you are quite aware, this council can only be a forerunner to a state administrative agency that single-mindedly pursues homeland security."
Although responsibility for defending the nation's maritime borders, airspace and territorial integrity fall under the purview of the federal government, Berry wrote, "some territorial capacity is necessary." She said the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency, the Law Enforcement Planning Commission and the adjutant general of the V.I. National Guard (as the designated "person in charge") are seeking to implement programs to comply with federal mandates.
However, she added, "without a massive infusion of federal resources, training and political support, the territory does not have the capacity to fulfill the federal mandates.
"Certainly, federal oversight is in order."
Citing naval base closings at Roosevelt Roads and on Vieques in Puerto Rico, Berry also called for creation of a U.S. Coast Guard unit to patrol the waters of the Northeastern Caribbean.
She said she is aware that Puerto Rico "is ahead of us in terms of organization and funding," but asked for "equitable treatment in funding, political support and organizational linkages."
The Virgin Islands' "geographical realities force us to request greater attention from the Department of Homeland Security," she wrote. "We do not wish to witness a Caribbean Pearl Harbor due to underestimation of the threats by federal and territorial officials."
Requesting Brown's "intervention as a facilitator" in establishing the V.I. Office of Homeland Security, Berry extended a second invitation to him to visit the territory, going so far as to suggest anytime in August but particularly the 14th to 18th.
She announced in March that Brown had accepted her earlier invitation to make such a visit April 14-15. Subsequently, the United States launched the war against Iraq and that visit was put on hold.
Two weeks ago, a release from the office of Delegate Donna M. Christensen stated that Christensen had recently invited Brown, a lawyer who previously was deputy director and general counsel of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to visit the territory "in the near future."
Berry included Christensen as well as Gov. Charles W. Turnbull in extending her new invitation, saying they all "need the political support of a federal official whose very presence would confer legitimacy and seriousness." At the same time, she said, a visit from Brown would allow the V.I. officials "to familiarize you with our various institutional needs."
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
With 175 miles of "porous borders," the territory particularly needs help to establish a federal Border Patrol unit, Berry told Michael Brown, first under secretary for emergency preparedness and response, in a letter dated July 8 and released to the media Wednesday.
Berry, writing as chair of the Legislature's new Public Safety, Judiciary, Homeland Security and Justice Committee, said the Border Patrol presence is needed to "stem the deluge of illegal aliens" and "illegal narcotics transshipment." And federal funds are needed to pay for "detaining, repatriating and/or relocating illegal aliens," she said.
She is drafting enabling legislation to create a V.I. Office of Homeland Security, she said. "Last week, the Homeland Security Council was operationalized locally," she told Brown, "but as you are quite aware, this council can only be a forerunner to a state administrative agency that single-mindedly pursues homeland security."
Although responsibility for defending the nation's maritime borders, airspace and territorial integrity fall under the purview of the federal government, Berry wrote, "some territorial capacity is necessary." She said the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency, the Law Enforcement Planning Commission and the adjutant general of the V.I. National Guard (as the designated "person in charge") are seeking to implement programs to comply with federal mandates.
However, she added, "without a massive infusion of federal resources, training and political support, the territory does not have the capacity to fulfill the federal mandates.
"Certainly, federal oversight is in order."
Citing naval base closings at Roosevelt Roads and on Vieques in Puerto Rico, Berry also called for creation of a U.S. Coast Guard unit to patrol the waters of the Northeastern Caribbean.
She said she is aware that Puerto Rico "is ahead of us in terms of organization and funding," but asked for "equitable treatment in funding, political support and organizational linkages."
The Virgin Islands' "geographical realities force us to request greater attention from the Department of Homeland Security," she wrote. "We do not wish to witness a Caribbean Pearl Harbor due to underestimation of the threats by federal and territorial officials."
Requesting Brown's "intervention as a facilitator" in establishing the V.I. Office of Homeland Security, Berry extended a second invitation to him to visit the territory, going so far as to suggest anytime in August but particularly the 14th to 18th.
She announced in March that Brown had accepted her earlier invitation to make such a visit April 14-15. Subsequently, the United States launched the war against Iraq and that visit was put on hold.
Two weeks ago, a release from the office of Delegate Donna M. Christensen stated that Christensen had recently invited Brown, a lawyer who previously was deputy director and general counsel of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to visit the territory "in the near future."
Berry included Christensen as well as Gov. Charles W. Turnbull in extending her new invitation, saying they all "need the political support of a federal official whose very presence would confer legitimacy and seriousness." At the same time, she said, a visit from Brown would allow the V.I. officials "to familiarize you with our various institutional needs."
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
HARRIGAN: MOVE HOUSING TO VETERANS AFFAIRS
July 9, 2003 – The territory's veterans affairs director, Justin Harrigan, told senators on Wednesday that he favors the creation of a "one-stop" multiservice agency for veterans that would include the government's program for home ownership.
At present, Harrigan said, all he can do is refer veterans seeking homes to the Housing Parks and Recreation Department, which administers the veterans' housing program. But he said some veterans feel that the department does not appreciate their particular needs.
"Veterans like to be served by veterans," he said, according to a release from the Legislature. "They understand what each other is going through."
Harrigan's testimony came at a hearing on St. Croix of the Senate Housing Parks and Recreation Committee. Sen. Emmett Hansen II, the committee chair, called the meeting to take testimony on the V.I. veterans home program and the availability of land for such homes..
Ira Hobson, commissioner of Housing Parks and Recreation, said his department is working to convert 30.5 acres of land in Estate Hope on St. Croix and about 25 acres in Estate Contant on St. Thomas to use for veterans' home ownership. He said that because of the steep terrain, another $350,000 is needed to get the St. Croix land ready for sale to veterans.
Hansen and Harrigan agreed that the veterans' home ownership program should be transferred to the Veterans Affairs Office to better serve its intended constituency.
Hobson said that if the program is transferred without providing for additional resources, the existing administrative problems will simply be transferred, too.
If adequate funding is not available, Hansen said, a liaison officer between Harrigan's office and Hobson's department might be an appropriate alternative.
According to the release, Hansen also said more unused government should be made available for home ownership.
Committee members present were Sens. Hansen, Louis Hill, Luther Renee and Usie Richards. Sens. David Jones and Celestino White were absent. Also present was Michael Liu, U.S. Housing and Urban Development undersecretary.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Croix Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
At present, Harrigan said, all he can do is refer veterans seeking homes to the Housing Parks and Recreation Department, which administers the veterans' housing program. But he said some veterans feel that the department does not appreciate their particular needs.
"Veterans like to be served by veterans," he said, according to a release from the Legislature. "They understand what each other is going through."
Harrigan's testimony came at a hearing on St. Croix of the Senate Housing Parks and Recreation Committee. Sen. Emmett Hansen II, the committee chair, called the meeting to take testimony on the V.I. veterans home program and the availability of land for such homes..
Ira Hobson, commissioner of Housing Parks and Recreation, said his department is working to convert 30.5 acres of land in Estate Hope on St. Croix and about 25 acres in Estate Contant on St. Thomas to use for veterans' home ownership. He said that because of the steep terrain, another $350,000 is needed to get the St. Croix land ready for sale to veterans.
Hansen and Harrigan agreed that the veterans' home ownership program should be transferred to the Veterans Affairs Office to better serve its intended constituency.
Hobson said that if the program is transferred without providing for additional resources, the existing administrative problems will simply be transferred, too.
If adequate funding is not available, Hansen said, a liaison officer between Harrigan's office and Hobson's department might be an appropriate alternative.
According to the release, Hansen also said more unused government should be made available for home ownership.
Committee members present were Sens. Hansen, Louis Hill, Luther Renee and Usie Richards. Sens. David Jones and Celestino White were absent. Also present was Michael Liu, U.S. Housing and Urban Development undersecretary.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Croix Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
HARRIGAN: MOVE HOUSING TO VETERANS AFFAIRS
July 9, 2003 – The territory's veterans affairs director, Justin Harrigan, told senators on Wednesday that he favors the creation of a "one-stop" multiservice agency for veterans that would include the government's program for home ownership.
At present, Harrigan said, all he can do is refer veterans seeking homes to the Housing Parks and Recreation Department, which administers the veterans' housing program. But he said some veterans feel that the department does not appreciate their particular needs.
"Veterans like to be served by veterans," he said, according to a release from the Legislature. "They understand what each other is going through."
Harrigan's testimony came at a hearing on St. Croix of the Senate Housing Parks and Recreation Committee. Sen. Emmett Hansen II, the committee chair, called the meeting to take testimony on the V.I. veterans home program and the availability of land for such homes..
Ira Hobson, commissioner of Housing Parks and Recreation, said his department is working to convert 30.5 acres of land in Estate Hope on St. Croix and about 25 acres in Estate Contant on St. Thomas to use for veterans' home ownership. He said that because of the steep terrain, another $350,000 is needed to get the St. Croix land ready for sale to veterans.
Hansen and Harrigan agreed that the veterans' home ownership program should be transferred to the Veterans Affairs Office to better serve its intended constituency.
Hobson said that if the program is transferred without providing for additional resources, the existing administrative problems will simply be transferred, too.
If adequate funding is not available, Hansen said, a liaison officer between Harrigan's office and Hobson's department might be an appropriate alternative.
According to the release, Hansen also said more unused government should be made available for home ownership.
Committee members present were Sens. Hansen, Louis Hill, Luther Renee and Usie Richards. Sens. David Jones and Celestino White were absent. Also present was Michael Liu, U.S. Housing and Urban Development undersecretary.
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
At present, Harrigan said, all he can do is refer veterans seeking homes to the Housing Parks and Recreation Department, which administers the veterans' housing program. But he said some veterans feel that the department does not appreciate their particular needs.
"Veterans like to be served by veterans," he said, according to a release from the Legislature. "They understand what each other is going through."
Harrigan's testimony came at a hearing on St. Croix of the Senate Housing Parks and Recreation Committee. Sen. Emmett Hansen II, the committee chair, called the meeting to take testimony on the V.I. veterans home program and the availability of land for such homes..
Ira Hobson, commissioner of Housing Parks and Recreation, said his department is working to convert 30.5 acres of land in Estate Hope on St. Croix and about 25 acres in Estate Contant on St. Thomas to use for veterans' home ownership. He said that because of the steep terrain, another $350,000 is needed to get the St. Croix land ready for sale to veterans.
Hansen and Harrigan agreed that the veterans' home ownership program should be transferred to the Veterans Affairs Office to better serve its intended constituency.
Hobson said that if the program is transferred without providing for additional resources, the existing administrative problems will simply be transferred, too.
If adequate funding is not available, Hansen said, a liaison officer between Harrigan's office and Hobson's department might be an appropriate alternative.
According to the release, Hansen also said more unused government should be made available for home ownership.
Committee members present were Sens. Hansen, Louis Hill, Luther Renee and Usie Richards. Sens. David Jones and Celestino White were absent. Also present was Michael Liu, U.S. Housing and Urban Development undersecretary.
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
HARRIGAN: MOVE HOUSING TO VETERANS AFFAIRS
July 9, 2003 – The territory's veterans affairs director, Justin Harrigan, told senators on Wednesday that he favors the creation of a "one-stop" multiservice agency for veterans that would include the government's program for home ownership.
At present, Harrigan said, all he can do is refer veterans seeking homes to the Housing Parks and Recreation Department, which administers the veterans' housing program. But he said some veterans feel that the department does not appreciate their particular needs.
"Veterans like to be served by veterans," he said, according to a release from the Legislature. "They understand what each other is going through."
Harrigan's testimony came at a hearing on St. Croix of the Senate Housing Parks and Recreation Committee. Sen. Emmett Hansen II, the committee chair, called the meeting to take testimony on the V.I. veterans home program and the availability of land for such homes..
Ira Hobson, commissioner of Housing Parks and Recreation, said his department is working to convert 30.5 acres of land in Estate Hope on St. Croix and about 25 acres in Estate Contant on St. Thomas to use for veterans' home ownership. He said that because of the steep terrain, another $350,000 is needed to get the St. Croix land ready for sale to veterans.
Hansen and Harrigan agreed that the veterans' home ownership program should be transferred to the Veterans Affairs Office to better serve its intended constituency.
Hobson said that if the program is transferred without providing for additional resources, the existing administrative problems will simply be transferred, too.
If adequate funding is not available, Hansen said, a liaison officer between Harrigan's office and Hobson's department might be an appropriate alternative.
According to the release, Hansen also said more unused government should be made available for home ownership.
Committee members present were Sens. Hansen, Louis Hill, Luther Renee and Usie Richards. Sens. David Jones and Celestino White were absent. Also present was Michael Liu, U.S. Housing and Urban Development undersecretary.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
At present, Harrigan said, all he can do is refer veterans seeking homes to the Housing Parks and Recreation Department, which administers the veterans' housing program. But he said some veterans feel that the department does not appreciate their particular needs.
"Veterans like to be served by veterans," he said, according to a release from the Legislature. "They understand what each other is going through."
Harrigan's testimony came at a hearing on St. Croix of the Senate Housing Parks and Recreation Committee. Sen. Emmett Hansen II, the committee chair, called the meeting to take testimony on the V.I. veterans home program and the availability of land for such homes..
Ira Hobson, commissioner of Housing Parks and Recreation, said his department is working to convert 30.5 acres of land in Estate Hope on St. Croix and about 25 acres in Estate Contant on St. Thomas to use for veterans' home ownership. He said that because of the steep terrain, another $350,000 is needed to get the St. Croix land ready for sale to veterans.
Hansen and Harrigan agreed that the veterans' home ownership program should be transferred to the Veterans Affairs Office to better serve its intended constituency.
Hobson said that if the program is transferred without providing for additional resources, the existing administrative problems will simply be transferred, too.
If adequate funding is not available, Hansen said, a liaison officer between Harrigan's office and Hobson's department might be an appropriate alternative.
According to the release, Hansen also said more unused government should be made available for home ownership.
Committee members present were Sens. Hansen, Louis Hill, Luther Renee and Usie Richards. Sens. David Jones and Celestino White were absent. Also present was Michael Liu, U.S. Housing and Urban Development undersecretary.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
