As Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. continues to push the Legislature for approval to expand the Virgin Islands’ $100 million line of credit to $150 million, or establish a new $50 million credit line, senators are urging caution and demanding accountability, particularly in light of the territory’s ongoing financial challenges.
In a press release sent toward the end of Tuesday’s budget wrap-up hearing, Bryan underscored the need for additional funds to meet pressing financial obligations such as vendor payments, tax refunds, and hurricane recovery projects. However, Senate leaders, including Senate President Novelle Francis Jr., expressed at the time serious concerns about the administration’s request, questioning the lack of transparency and the territory’s ability to manage further debt and emphasizing the need for a comprehensive financial plan and clearer communication from the Bryan administration on how the funds would be allocated.
Sen. Alma Francis-Heyliger echoed this sentiment, pointing to the lack of a cohesive plan for addressing the financial obligations and adding that without a concrete strategy, it would be difficult for lawmakers to support further borrowing.
On Thursday, Senate Majority Leader Kenneth L. Gittens added his voice to the growing opposition, expressing serious reservations about the administration’s management of previous funds. Gittens noted that of the $50 million previously allocated for retroactive wage payments, only $2.5 million had been disbursed, raising concerns about the government’s handling of taxpayer dollars.
“The territory is already in significant debt, and I am very hesitant to move forward with any additional borrowing without assurances on how the monies will be spent,” Gittens wrote. He called for a full accounting of past appropriations before any new funds are approved. “The lack of transparency and insufficient action on the part of the administration to address these past obligations raises serious concerns,” he added.
Gittens also questioned why, despite federal hurricane recovery dollars and settlements from the Epstein estate, basic infrastructure like schools and roads remain in poor condition, while the Water and Power Authority (WAPA) struggles to cover fuel costs. “WAPA can’t even afford diesel to keep the lights on,” he remarked. “We need to know what is really going on here.”
Sen. Angel Bolques Jr. echoed these concerns in a press release, stressing the importance of fiscal responsibility and urging the administration to present a detailed financial plan that includes austerity measures and budget reductions. “Any decision to expand or approve new lines of credit must come with a transparent and accountable strategy that prioritizes the long-term economic health of our territory,” Bolques said.
Both senators called for an open dialogue between the Legislature and the Bryan administration, demanding a clear roadmap for recovery and growth. With the territory already facing significant debt, Gittens emphasized that continuing to borrow is not a sustainable solution.
