“Before we dive into today’s updates, I want to acknowledge the progress we’ve made together in 2024 and extend my heartfelt wishes for a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to each of you,” Roach said. “Let us look back on this year with pride and look forward to 2025 with optimism and determination.”
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program
Roach highlighted the successful Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, which provided fresh, locally grown produce to nearly 800 eligible seniors across St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John.
“This program supports our low-income seniors and reflects our commitment to our community,” he stated. “Thank you to our local farmers, the Virgin Islands Housing Authority, and the Department of Agriculture staff for making this program successful. Together, we are building a Virgin Islands that is stronger, healthier, and more united than ever.”
Removal of Derelict Vessels from Tropical Storm Ernesto
Roach announced the upcoming removal of derelict vessels caused by Tropical Storm Ernesto. The contract has been executed, and the contractor will start removing vessels from the east near Elysian Resort, moving westward, beginning in early January.
“DPNR is working with the VI Waste Management Authority to improve water quality along the waterfront promenade, ensuring safe removal of the vessels,” he said.
Achievements of the Office of the Lieutenant Governor in 2024
Roach shared that the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) has accredited the Virgin Islands Division of Banking, Insurance, and Financial Regulation. “The NAIC unanimously granted accreditation at their Fall National Meeting. This accreditation is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication,” he said.
Accompanying Lt. Governor Roach were key team members, including:
- Attorney Glendina Matthew, Director
- Magdalene Burke, Acting Assistant Director
- Valecia Patrick, Acting Chief Examiner Insurance
- Attorney Suzette Richards, Legal Counsel
- Vanessa Richards, Financial Services Examiner
- Arienne Lang, Financial Services Examiner
- Cheryl Charleswell, Former Acting Assistant Director and Chief Examiner Insurance
“Our thorough review included evaluations of financial solvency laws, financial analysis capabilities, organizational practices, and licensing procedures,” Roach said.
This is a major accomplishment for the Virgin Islands, which demonstrates that the Division meets the standards of effective regulation relative to insurance.
The Street Addressing Initiative being undertaken by the Division of Geospatial Information Systems of the Office of the Lieutenant Governor aims to create an urban grid for the Territory, which will make navigating the roadways and accessing each individual parcel in the Territory infinitely easier.
Roach announced two major accomplishments in the area — the completion of the mapping of the island of St. John, which makes St. John the first island in the Caribbean to have such a navigable grid, and the installation of backlit, illuminated signs on our highways and major roads.
“I wish to commend Director Chris George, who is spearheading the project, and staff Pedro Nieves and John Gumbs,” Roach said. “We are also grateful to our partners in this initiative which include the Department of Public, VITEMA, Fire Services and Emergency Management, the Postal Service, and the University of the Virgin Islands.
