For Immediate Release                                            Press Contact: Africah N.T. Harrigan

March 27, 2025                                                         Email: aharrigan@legvi.org

BOARD NOMINEES, LEASE AGREEMENTS, AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BILLS ADVANCE

ST. CROIX, VI — The Committee on Rules and Judiciary, chaired by Senator Carla J. Joseph, convened at the Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room to deliberate on key legislations. Lawmakers voted favorably on the governor’s nominations of Elizabeth Guadalupe-Perez to the Virgin Islands Real Estate Appraisers Board and Trinity Granger-Austrie, EIT, to the University of the Virgin Islands Board of Trustees. Additionally, senators considered lease agreements, and a legislative proposal aimed at bolstering economic development and enhancing the operational capacity of the Virgin Islands Port Authority. 

During the hearing, Senator Joseph expressed her admiration for nominee Elizabeth Guadalupe-Perez, stating, “During our preliminary interview, I was truly impressed by your level of commitment and dedication to this role. You have undergone a rigorous educational journey to become a certified real estate appraiser. The Governor has sent forward a true professional—someone resilient, capable, and well-qualified for this position.”

Guadalupe-Perez provided an overview of her extensive professional experience, noting that she has served as an appraiser since 2006. Her work spans collaborations with attorneys, local banks, private clients, appraisal management companies, government agencies, and stateside financial institutions. She also highlighted her involvement in complex appraisal projects across the Territory, including her work with General Appraiser Elissa Runyon.

Equally inspiring was the testimony of Trinity Granger-Austrie, who reflected on her educational journey and deep-rooted connection to the University of the Virgin Islands. Senator Joseph remarked that Austrie’s story is a powerful testament to how perseverance can overcome adversity and lead to success. Austrie expressed heartfelt gratitude to Governor Albert Bryan Jr. for the nomination and shared how an early financial hardship led her to attend UVI—a decision she now views as transformative. A proud alumna and lifelong Virgin Islander, she recounted her academic and leadership accomplishments, including being named a Thurgood Marshall Scholar, serving as SGA Vice President, and participating in prestigious research opportunities. Her testimony underscored UVI’s role in shaping her path and her commitment to giving back through service on its Board of Trustees.

Policymakers voted in the affirmative for the following measures: 

• Bill No. 36-0028 – An Act approving the lease agreement between the Government of the Virgin Island and Tropical Marine, Inc., for Parcel No. 37-1 Estate Nadir, No. 2 Red Hook Quarter, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands and a portion of unsurvey Estate Nadir, No. 2. Red Hook Quarter, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands Board of Career and Technical Education-St. Croix. 

Sponsored by: Sen. Milton E. Potter by Request of the Governor.

• Bill No. 36-0038 – An Act amending Title 29 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 10, subchapter III, section 551, subsection (a) by increasing the limit for outstanding bonds for the Virgin Islands Port Authority from $100 million to $500 million. Sponsored by: Sen. Milton E. Potter. 
• Bill No. 36-0040 – An Act approving the lease agreement between the Government of the Virgin Islands and Charles M. Kim V.I. Foundation, Inc. d/b/a Virgin Islands Museum of Art, for a portion of Lot No. 48b Norre Gade, Kings Quarter, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. Sponsored by: Sen. Milton E. Potter by Request of the Governor.

All of the above measures were approved and forwarded to the Full Body for further consideration and action.

Senators present at today’s Committee meeting included Carla J. Joseph, Milton E. Potter, Kenneth L. Gittens, Angel L. Bolques, Jr, Alma Francis Heyliger, Marise C. James, Clifford A. Joseph, Sr., Avery L. Lewis.

The Division of Public Affairs is committed to providing the community with accurate information on legislative proceedings and other events at the Legislature of the Virgin Islands. Visit www.legvi.org. 

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Press Contact: Africah N.T. Harrigan]

email: aharrigan@legvi.org