COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REVIEWS REZONING PROPOSALS TO BOOST DEVELOPMENT ON ST. CROIX
ST. CROIX – The Committee of the Whole, chaired by Senator Novelle E. Francis, Jr., convened at the Frits E. Lawaetz Conference Room to hear testimony on multiple rezoning requests from representatives of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR). No votes were conducted at the meeting, as is customary for Committee of the Whole sessions. The zoning requests will be forwarded to the full body for further consideration and action.
Senator Francis emphasized the potential benefits of the proposed rezonings, stating, “The zoning requests represent progress that will positively impact our community and generate additional revenue for the Government of the Virgin Islands. I commend DPNR for the work they are doing. We want to ensure that the recommendation of utilizing use variances helps applicants overcome obstacles. These measures will bring economic growth to the Territory.”
Lawmakers reviewed four zoning requests and one minor coastal zone permit regarding, constructing rental homes, hotel expansions, and property enhancements such as constructing a private dock, and storage. Members discussed the following:
- Bill No. 35-0302 – An Act amending Official Zoning Map No. SCZ-11 for the island of St. Croix to rezone Plot No. 8-E Estate Mount Pleasant, Prince Quarter, St. Croix, Virgin Islands, from R-2 (Residential-Low Density-One and Two Family) to B-3 (Business-Scattered), and Remainder Plot No. 8 Estate Mount Pleasant, Prince Quarter, St. Croix, Virgin Islands, from R-2 (Residential-Low Density-One and Two Family) to R-3 (Residential-Medium Density). The rezoning aims to support mixed-use development. Leia LaPlace-Matthews, Territorial Planner for DPNR, highlighted that the area’s mixed-use character makes it suitable for the proposed changes.
- Bill No. 35-0321 – An Act amending the Official Zoning Map No. SCZ-11 for the island of St. Croix to change the zoning designation of Plot No. 1068 Estate Williams Delight, Prince Quarter, St. Croix, Virgin Islands, from R-2 (Residential-Low Density-One and Two Family) to R-3 (Residential-Medium Density). Representing Ezra and Atarah Garib, Clarence Browne noted that the rezoning would facilitate the creation of affordable housing. DPNR supports the change.
- Bill No. 35-0322 – An Act amending Official Zoning Map No. SCZ-18 for the island of St. Croix to rezone Plots No. 36, 37, 38, and 42 Strand Street, Town of Frederiksted, St. Croix, Virgin Islands, from W-1 (Waterfront-Pleasure) to B-1 (Business-Central Business District). Representing Evolve USVI, LLC, Browne indicated that the expansion would increase commercial activity and improve the area. DPNR is in favor of this rezoning.
- BR No. 24-1172 – Ratifying the zoning application for Plot No. 8 Estate Cassava Garden to allow a use variance for I-2 (Light Industry) zoning for propane storage, retail, and wholesale. Alicia Barnes, Environmental Consultant representing VI Propane, noted the site’s ideal location for such operations, with DPNR in support of the recommendation.
- Bill No. 35-0280 – An Act ratifying Minor Coastal Zone Permit No. CZX-21-22 (W) issued to Teague Paradise, LLC for the redesign and size reduction of an existing 338 sq. ft. dock, to a 268 sq. ft. dock seaward of Plot 20, Teague Bay, Christiansted, St. Croix, Virgin Islands. Michael Joukowsky, President of Teague Paradise, LLC, stated that the project aims to restore the dock. DPNR’s Coastal Zone Management Division supports the permit, aligning with the goals of the VI Code.
The following senators were in attendance: Novelle E. Francis, Jr., Dwayne M. DeGraff, Alma Francis Heyliger, Sammuel Carrion, Diane T. Capehart, Javan E. James, Sr., Franklin D. Johnson, Marise C. James, Milton E. Potter, Kenneth L. Gittens, Marvin A. Blyden, Angel Bolques, Jr., and Carla J. Joseph.
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Press Contact: Africah Harrigan
Email: aharrigan@legvi.org
