Pinned
The Virgin Islands is at a crossroads. The decisions we make today will shape the future of our territory, particularly St. Croix, for generations to come.
My Agricultural Homestead Program would preserve agricultural land, support local farmers, and create opportunities for the next generation through education, training, and technical assistance. By growing more food locally, we can strengthen our economy and reduce our dependence on imports.
I support modernizing our airports to strengthen tourism, create economic opportunities, and improve travel for residents and visitors. Completing VIPA's careful review of the proposed partnership and including jet bridges for St. Croix from the outset will help ensure this investment serves the long-term interests of the people of the Virgin Islands.
Public service should be built on qualifications, experience, and the ability to do the job—not politics. I'm calling for a review of the 1987 Government Reorganization Law and restoration of the Personnel Merit System to protect qualified public employees, improve accountability, and strengthen professionalism in public service.
I support restoring horse racing on St. Croix to create jobs, support local horsemen, strengthen tourism, and preserve an important part of our island's heritage. A transparent, competitive process with strong oversight can help build a sustainable industry that protects the public interest.
Our seniors deserve quality healthcare close to home, where they can remain connected to their families and communities. My healthcare reform plan would expand elder care, strengthen our hospitals, invest in healthcare workers, and restore financial accountability.
I support efforts to position St. Croix as a Caribbean shipping and trade hub, creating opportunities for jobs, investment, and local businesses. Seeking federal designation as a pre-clearance port for commercial vessels could strengthen our maritime industry and expand our role in regional trade.
I support municipal government to give St. Croix greater control over its economic and infrastructure priorities while preserving the unity of the Virgin Islands. My proposal aims to bring decisions closer to the people and strengthen local accountability, giving residents a greater voice in our island's future.
I support restarting the St. Croix refinery with safeguards that protect the people of the Virgin Islands. A strategic partnership with a private investor could help attract additional funding and demonstrate our commitment to a restart.
Op-ed published by St. Croix Times.