St Croix Christmas Festival
Statement from Government House on the Passing of Janlee Cruz
VIRGIN ISLANDS— Government House released the following statement Saturday on the passing of Mr. Janlee Cruz, a member of the Virgin Islands Police Department’s Executive Security Unit assigned to Government House in St. Croix:
Government House is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Mr. Janlee Cruz, a cherished team member at Government House in St. Croix. As a member of the Virgin Islands Police Department’s Executive Security Unit, Janlee was a dedicated protector and a valued colleague whose unwavering commitment and vibrant spirit brought a unique energy to our workplace.
Janlee approached his duties with a noticeable enthusiasm, a bright smile, and a readiness to serve. His dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of those he worked with was evident in everything he did, and his positive attitude was a constant source of encouragement for all of us.
We all feel his loss.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time, and we extend our support and prayers to all who mourn his passing.
We will remember him for his professionalism, kindness, generosity, and the warm relationships he built with so many of us. We pray that his family and loved ones find comfort and strength in the fond memories they, too, hold.
Extending the contract to support continued partnership on essential service needss
Employee WAPA Governing Board Approves FY2025 Budget
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – October 26, 2024 – The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or the “Authority”) is pleased to announce the Governing Board’s approval of the FY2025 budget at Thursday’s meeting, alongside several key action items that further reinforce WAPA’s focus on operational stability and strategic growth.
The FY2025 budget approval marks a significant step in aligning WAPA’s resources with its strategic goals, supporting crucial initiatives in energy, water, and infrastructure development. This budget was initially discussed with the Finance Committee in July, with extensions granted to accommodate review under WAPA’s new Executive Director. Having this approved budget enables WAPA to move forward confidently in executing initiatives critical to the community.
In addition to the budget, the Board approved all remaining action items, reflecting a shared dedication to WAPA’s continuous improvement and service reliability:
Time Extension for Kami Metals LLC, Contract SC-18-24 – Extending the contract to support continued partnership on essential service needs.
Employee Handbook Update – Approving updates that ensure WAPA’s policies reflect current standards and support a fair and productive work environment.
The Board’s Finance and Audit Committee also approved several items to reinforce WAPA’s operational priorities:
Amendment to Arcadis Contract Terms (SC-11-22) – Enhancing terms in the Master Service Agreement for air consulting and engineering services to ensure compliance and environmental stewardship.
2025 Employee Benefits Renewal – Renewing employee benefits to provide comprehensive, competitive offerings to WAPA’s workforce.
Alternative USLD Fuel Supply for Richmond Power Plant – Ensuring a reliable and cost-effective fuel supply for Richmond Power Plant operations.
Trident Industries, Contract SC-12-23 – Finalizing a contract to secure specialized services essential to WAPA’s mission.
“Each action item approved at the board meeting underscores the Authority’s dedication to advancing initiatives that benefit our community, support our employees, and contribute to the reliable and efficient delivery of utility services,” said Karl Knight, CEO and Executive Director of the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority.
Additionally, the Board held discussions on personnel and legal matters; however, no formal action was taken. During the CEO’s executive report, the CEO provided updates on ongoing efforts and highlighted recent progress made in addressing key operational needs.
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Communication’s department is committed to reaching, informing, and connecting with the youngest members of the community to the eldest, through meaningful, transparent and effective communication.
Handbook Update – Approving updates that ensure WAPA’s policies reflect current standards and support a fair and productive work environment.
The Board’s Finance and Audit Committee also approved several items to reinforce WAPA’s operational priorities:
Amendment to Arcadis Contract Terms (SC-11-22) – Enhancing terms in the Master Service Agreement for air consulting and engineering services to ensure compliance and environmental stewardship.
2025 Employee Benefits Renewal – Renewing employee benefits to provide comprehensive, competitive offerings to WAPA’s workforce.
Alternative USLD Fuel Supply for Richmond Power Plant – Ensuring a reliable and cost-effective fuel supply for Richmond Power Plant operations.
Trident Industries, Contract SC-12-23 – Finalizing a contract to secure specialized services essential to WAPA’s mission.
“Each action item approved at the board meeting underscores the Authority’s dedication to advancing initiatives that benefit our community, support our employees, and contribute to the reliable and efficient delivery of utility services,” said Karl Knight, CEO and Executive Director of the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority.
Additionally, the Board held discussions on personnel and legal matters; however, no formal action was taken. During the CEO’s executive report, the CEO provided updates on ongoing efforts and highlighted recent progress made in addressing key operational needs.
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Communication’s department is committed to reaching, informing, and connecting with the youngest members of the community to the eldest, through meaningful, transparent and effective communication.
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — In a significant step toward bolstering support and resources for the Territory’s aging population, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. convened the first meeting of the Virgin Islands Commission on Aging on Wednesday, led by Government House Special Projects Coordinator Clint Ferris.
The commission, established under Governor Bryan’s leadership, aims to serve as a critical advocacy organization for seniors, ensuring their needs and concerns are prioritized in policy and service delivery across the Territory.
At the meeting, which marked the commission’s official launch, the group began the vital work of finalizing and approving its bylaws. A key part of the agenda was the selection of interim leadership to guide the commission as it builds its framework for addressing the needs of the Territory’s senior residents.
The group presented a motion, which was seconded and subsequently approved, to nominate Troy de Chabert-Schuster, State Director of AARP Virgin Islands, as Interim Chair of the commission. Former Human Services Assistant Commissioner and Associate Pastor of the Zion Outreach and Evangelical Ministries Church Michal Rhymer-Browne was elected Acting Vice Chair. At the same time, the commission’s members also elected Senator at Large Angel Bolques as Secretary. This diverse leadership team brings extensive experience in senior advocacy, government services, and community outreach, ensuring that the commission will be well-positioned to meet the challenges ahead.
“The Commission on Aging is about lending our voices and advocacy to ensure that Virgin Islanders can age and transition into senior-hood right here at home. We will be working at dismantling the barriers and growing capacity as it pertains to growing older in the Virgin Islands,” said Clint Ferris.
“As AARP Virgin Islands State Director, I have seen the challenges facing our aging population, and I’m deeply thankful for the reestablishment of the Commission on Aging. My thanks go to Senator Myron Jackson, the 33rd Legislature, and Governor Bryan for their unwavering support, said de Chabert-Schuster. “This Commission offers a chance to build strong partnerships that will create lasting solutions for our seniors, ensuring they can age with dignity, independence, and respect. I look forward to working with the Commission to advocate for and empower older Virgin Islanders.”
Governor Bryan, in his remarks, thanked Clint Ferris for his dedication and emphasized the growing importance of the commission, particularly as the Virgin Islands’ population continues to age. “Our community is getting older, and with that comes the responsibility to provide more services, resources, and infrastructure to support our seniors,” said Governor Bryan. “The Commission on Aging will play a critical role in making recommendations on how to deliver these services and will help us advocate for the resources necessary to meet this growing demand.”
Governor Bryan also tasked the commission with developing a comprehensive budget and outlining initiatives that include digital literacy workshops and electronic device giveaways, which are essential to ensuring seniors remain connected and empowered in an increasingly digital world.
“This commission is more than just a policy group; it’s an advocacy body that will fight for the rights, dignity, and well-being of our elderly population. We have an opportunity to make the Virgin Islands a national leader in senior care, and today’s meeting is the first step toward that goal,” Governor Bryan stated.
The creation of the Virgin Islands Commission on Aging aligns with the Bryan-Roach Administration’s broader mission to improve the quality of life for all Virgin Islanders, ensuring that no group, especially seniors, is left behind in the Territory’s progress.
Photo from: RepeatingIslands.com
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS —Governor Albert Bryan Jr. met with representatives from Caribbean Sustainable Aquaculture (CSA), a leading advocate for sustainable development in the Caribbean, to discuss an initiative that will introduce fish farming to the Virgin Islands, enhancing food security, promoting sustainable agriculture, and boosting the local economy.
The meeting focused on the potential benefits of fish farming and new innovative farming methods that combine aquaculture (raising fish) in inland nurseries and then deploying them in giant fish cages. These cages are typically submerged to 150-200 feet and are monitored and fed by a surface vessel to ensure growth rates and optimal conditions.
“Today marks a significant step forward in our efforts to make the Virgin Islands more self-sufficient and resilient,” said Governor Bryan. “The introduction of fish farming will not only help us reduce our dependence on imported food but will also create new opportunities for local farmers and entrepreneurs.”
The CSA, a leading advocate for sustainable development in the Caribbean, will be providing technical expertise, training, and support to ensure the successful implementation of these systems in the Virgin Islands. The organization currently has operations in Curaçao, Norway and Morocco. The agency has a proven track record of promoting environmentally friendly agricultural practices that contribute to food security and economic development across the region.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Virgin Islands on this initiative,” said Dennis Brow, a spokesperson for CSA. “Aquaponics represents the future of farming, especially in island communities where space and resources are limited. By working together, we can create a model for sustainable agriculture that benefits both the environment and the people.”
The introduction of fish farming aligns with the Virgin Islands’ broader goals of promoting environmental sustainability, enhancing food sovereignty, and creating economic opportunities for residents. The initiative is expected to roll out in phases on their recent visit CSA officials have been identifying potential off shore sites on St. Croix. They have also started initial discussions with fishermen and with plans to expand the program territory-wide in the coming years.
As part of the initiative, the CSA will also engage with local schools and community groups to provide education on sustainable farming practices, helping to inspire the next generation of Virgin Islanders to take an active role in the territory’s agricultural future.
Governor Bryan and the CSA representatives expressed their shared commitment to ensuring that this initiative benefits all residents of the Virgin Islands. Further updates on the project, including how local farmers and entrepreneurs can get involved, will be provided in the coming months.
The Bryan-Roach Administration is investing in the Territory’s people, infrastructure and future through transparency, stabilizing the economy, restoring trust in the government and ensuring that recovery projects are completed as quickly as possible. Visit transparency.vi.gov
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