ST. THOMAS – Members of the Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs, and Consumer Protection, led by Senator Carla J. Joseph met in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall. Lawmakers considered measures honoring outstanding Virgin Islanders. The Committee also received an update on the operations of the Virgin Islands Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs. Approved items on today’s agenda will be forwarded to the Committee on Rules and Judiciary for further consideration.
Lawmakers considered Bill No. 35-0316, An Act honoring and commending Mrs. Juel Turnbull Rhymer-Molloy for years of dedicated service and numerous contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands. The measure was proposed by Senators Ray Fonseca, Carla J. Joseph, and Milton E. Potter.
Various members of the Virgin Islands community spoke in favor of the proposed measure. James O’ Bryan Sr, former Senator called Molloy one of the great public servants of our generation. He said that the body was honoring her sincerity, honesty, intellect, commitment to public service and her integrity. He called her a fierce advocate of the helpless, hungry, and hopeless. Additionally, O’Bryan stated that she was worthy of the Virgin Islands Medal of Honor for her tireless work in the Virgin Islands.
Sedonie Halbert, former Commissioner of the Department of Human Services spoke highly of Molloy, recalling her reputation as the Executive Director of the Community Action Agency, highlighting her ability to assist with anything, stating that the word on the street was “anything you need, she will make sure you get it.” Halbert stated that because of Molloy’s performance, she had a favorable reputation with federal partners, which was unmatched by other local officials in her field. Molloy was appointed as Commissioner of the Department of Human Services in 1987, during the Alexander Farrelly administration. She was integral in reviewing the financial status of the department, in which she revealed low salaries, which were later increased. Another important accomplishment by Molloy was the repair and restructuring of the Knud Hansen Memorial Hospital building, which would later house both the Department of Human Services and Health, respectively, which saved the government rental costs. Additionally, Molloy advocated for the timely release of retirement payments from GERS, the stability of the Sea View Nursing Home, and served as an advocate for Head Start, securing millions of dollars for the program in the Virgin Islands.
Joanne Barry, who met Molloy during her tenure on the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority, and again when Barry was the Chief Labor Negotiator, stated that she was impressed with her unwavering passion for the elderly, children, and those most in need. Barry also told the body of Molloy’s compassion for all the people she had come in touch with, especially family and friends. Dr. Whitman T Browne lauded Molloy, highlighting her great leadership skills. Dr. Browne stated that Molloy was one who planned well, set goals, and achieved them successfully. Browne highlighted her problem-solving skills, saying that she asked the question “How can I make it better for everyone”? Additionally, Browne highlighted her commitment to friends, family and community, emphasizing her humbleness, stating that she mixes well with all groups of people.
Molloy, who stated she grew up in poverty, said that when she was growing up, she had hoped to have a position that would have lifted her out of those circumstances. Molloy stated that she would also like to encourage young people, stating that faith would help them achieve what they want. Chairwoman Joseph stated that she always admired Molloy from away.
Senators also considered Bill No. 35-0253, An Act honoring and commending police officers for the service they provide to the community and to recognize fallen law enforcement officers posthumously. The measure was proposed by Senator Diane T. Capehart.
Sidney Elskoe, Assistant Commissioner of the Virgin Islands Police Department delivered testimony. Elskoe’s testimony revealed the fact that in 2023, there was a sizable number of law enforcement deaths, with 556 officers having died since 2020 due to various causes such as felonious attacks, traffic incidents, and COVID-19 related illnesses. Elskoe stated that this served as reminder of the risks that those in law enforcement face daily. The proposed measure would acknowledge those who currently serve and those who have died serving. Elskoe stated that by honoring these individuals posthumously, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the values they held, as well as ensuring that the sacrifices that they made are not forgotten. Elskoe and the Department wholeheartedly supported the proposed measure.
Both measures on the agenda were voted upon favorably.
The Committee also received testimony concerning the operations of the Virgin Islands Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs. Natalie Hodge, Commissioner of the Department delivered updates on its behalf. The Department’s Fiscal Year 2025 total budget totaled $5,019,435 in General Fund appropriations and $500,000 in Consumer Protection Fund appropriations. In the FY 2025 Budget, there is a $16,000 increase for utilities, an increase of $97,908 in capital outlay for the purchase of two vehicles, and a decrease of $41,410.18 for personnel and fringe. The Department does not receive federal funds. Key functions of the Department include issuing business and professional licenses, consumer protection, enforcement, and weights and measures.
The Department currently has forty-five positions, funded by the General Fund. There are twenty-two positions in the St. Croix district and twenty-three positions in the St. Thomas-St. John District. All budgeted positions are filled. There are currently seven vacant positions, currently funded at 50%. Hodge said there are plans to update the department’s website to become more efficient and accessible. Additionally, there are several proposed amendments that would impact its operations. These include expanding the Commissioner’s authority, increasing fines and fees, updating terminology and structural updates, and revising existing amendments related to the Department’s licensing boards for better operational alignment. An update of the Department’s Standard Operating Procedures was recently completed and is being vetted to ensure better service to the public’s needs. The final document will be published in December 2024. Additionally, the Department has been vigilant in performing weekly fuel and market basket surveys. DLCA does not have the authority to regulate fuel prices beyond the provisions outlined in the Ocean Point Terminal agreement, but it continues to monitor market trends through the weekly surveys. Hodge spoke of vehicle and staffing shortages at the Department, which have affected performance. The ability to conduct onsite inspections has been affected because four inspectors share one vehicle. Technology has also been a challenge for the department. Parts of the application review system remain manual, which causes delays. It is expected that once this new system is in place, processing times will improve.
Chairwoman Joseph voiced concern over the price of goods in the territory, asking Hodge if any analysis had been done. Hodge said no analysis had been done but alluded to a survey about the cost of items in the territory that would be completed before the year’s end.
Hodge reminded the body that DLCA does not have the authority to set or regulate prices for goods or services under normal circumstances. However, the Department can act during an emergency. When the governor issues an emergency disaster declaration, the department is authorized to implement a price freeze on essential items to prevent price gouging. This can include food, water, beverages, health and medical care products, fuel, rents, construction materials, clothing and furnishes, depending on the emergency. Additionally, the Department has contracted a third party to assess the cost of living in the Virgin Islands and provide a report.
Present at today’s Committee hearing included Carla J. Joseph, Javan E. James, Sr., Samuel Carrión, Diane T. Capehart, Dwayne M. Degraff, Ray Fonseca, Alma Francis Heyliger, Kenneth L. Gittens, Javan E. James, Sr., and Milton E. Potter.
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