Committee on Disaster Recovery, Infrastructure and Planning:

Bill No. 36-0286 An act requiring the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority to expand the potable water distribution system, performing necessary upgrades to the existing potable water distribution system, and installing fire hydrants in East End and North Side, St. Croix.

Invited Testifiers:
Honorable Rueben Jennings, Acting Commissioner, VI Department of Public Works
Karl J. Knight, CEO/Executive Director, Virgin Islands Water & Power Authority
Antonio Stevens, Director, Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services

BLOCK II 11:30 A.M. — 1:00 P.M.

Bill No. 36-0329 An act amending title 31 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 23, by adding section 236c providing that contractors and subcontractors who have executed contracts with the Government of the Virgin Islands for disaster recovery projects must give first priority for procurement of goods, services, or equipment to licensed local contractors, equipment providers and heavy equipment operators.

Invited Testifiers:
Honorable Gary Molloy, Commissioner, VI Department of Labor
Honorable H. Nathalie Hodge, Commissioner, VI Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs

BLOCK III 2:00 P.M. — 4:00 P.M.

The Committee will receive an update from the Department of Planning and Natural Resources on the Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan, including a review of:
• Key accomplishments and milestones achieved since the Plan’s adoption.
• The status of policies and initiatives identified in the Year 1 Project Matrix, including any outstanding or delayed projects.
• Strategies and measures undertaken by the Department to advance the Plan’s long-term objectives.
• Funding secured or identified to support implementation efforts.
• The anticipated timeline for submitting the proposed zoning code amendments to the Legislature for consideration.

Invited Testifier:
Honorable Jean-Pierre Oriol, Commissioner, VI Department of Planning and Natural Resources