As we gear up for the 2024 Senate elections, it’s crucial to know where each candidate stands on issues that matter most to our community. To keep you informed, The Source has compiled a list of key questions on pressing topics affecting the Virgin Islands. The answers below are from St. Croix District candidate Hubert L. Frederick:
Why are you running for office, what are your qualifications, and why should voters choose you?
My name is Hubert L. Frederick, and I am running for Senate because I believe our community deserves leadership that understands the complexities of both the local economy and the needs of our people. With a diverse background as a banker, insurance broker, and businessman, combined with prior military service, I bring a unique perspective to the table. My experience in these sectors has equipped me with the skills to navigate financial, regulatory, and operational challenges, and I am committed to using this expertise to create meaningful, sustainable solutions for our territory.
Voters should choose me because I am committed to driving economic growth, improving public services, and amplifying the voices of every member of our community. I bring a broader, results-driven perspective to our Legislature, one that emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and bold action. With my experience, I will work tirelessly to create opportunities for local businesses, strengthen our education and healthcare systems, and ensure that government serves the people effectively and transparently. This is not just about progress; it’s about building a thriving future that benefits all of us.
How would you address the high cost of living in the territory and the lack of affordable housing?
Addressing the high cost of living and the shortage of affordable housing in our territory demands a comprehensive, strategic approach. With the support of my colleagues, one of my primary initiatives will be to advance legislation that promotes the broader integration of renewable energy.
By diversifying our energy sources and working to reduce costs through collaboration with WAPA, we can alleviate the financial pressures on our residents while contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable environment.
Furthermore, I intend to introduce legislation aimed at establishing a food processing facility in partnership with local agricultural stakeholders. This initiative will enable the preservation of local harvests, facilitate year-round availability, and stabilize food prices by fostering a robust, local supply chain — thus reducing our dependence on imported goods.
Lastly, through my St. Croix Community Development Initiative, I will be committed to the revitalization of our towns by increasing the stock of residential housing and commercial properties. This effort is designed not only to address housing affordability but also to reinvigorate economic activity in our downtown areas.
How would you improve the territory’s electrical grid and implementation of renewable energy?
Upgrading the territory’s electrical grid and expanding renewable energy use requires a focused and strategic approach. With available FEMA funding, there is a clear path to modernizing the power generation and distribution system at WAPA. I will work with my colleagues to introduce legislation that supports relocating power distribution infrastructure to the southside centralized and integrable within the existing industrial zone.
This centralization would streamline operations, improve grid reliability, and provide a solid foundation for incorporating renewable energy sources. By prioritizing the use of renewable sources within the construct of our energy infrastructure, we can achieve a more diversified energy portfolio, leading to reduced long-term operational costs, sustainability, and affordability for residents and businesses alike.
What would you do to expedite or improve the territory’s disaster recovery, which has dragged on for seven years now?
I would collaborate closely with the Administration to identify and address the specific procedural and regulatory obstacles that have delayed effective disaster recovery. This requires a thorough review of existing policies and coordination mechanisms to streamline processes and enhance enforcement, accountability and results.
What reforms would you propose to ensure our children are receiving the public education that they deserve?
Addressing the challenges in our public education system requires a practical, multifaceted approach. First, it is essential to tackle the significant learning loss experienced over the past seven years. This can be done through targeted intervention programs, curriculum enhancements, and providing teachers with the necessary resources and training to address students’ needs effectively.
Equally important is a renewed emphasis on early childhood education, which lays the foundation for all future academic success. Investing in quality early learning programs ensures that children acquire the essential skills and knowledge needed from the start.
Lastly, expanding after-school programs would provide structured opportunities for students to reinforce their learning and address any deficiencies. Addressing these key areas will support a stronger, more supportive educational system that truly serves our children and prepares them for academic success.
What are your solutions to address violent crime in the territory, especially among young men?
Addressing violent crime, particularly among young men, requires a multi-pronged approach that combines prevention, intervention, and enforcement. One effective measure would be to reinstate youth programs that have proven successful in the past. These programs can provide mentorship, skill development, and constructive activities that help steer young people away from criminal influences.
In addition to preventive measures, there is a need to strengthen laws to ensure stricter penalties for individuals who deliberately engage in violent activities and sow fear within our communities.
This balanced approach — emphasizing both deterrence through stronger legislation and proactive engagement through youth support programs — can help reduce crime rates and create safer environments for our residents.
How can the territory improve upon its tourism product while addressing growing concerns about over-tourism? Are we too reliant on cruise tourism and what can be done to bring more overnight visitors?
While tourism is vital to our economy, St. Croix has not been a major beneficiary of this sector compared to other parts of the Virgin Islands. However, this island holds significant potential for economic diversification beyond traditional tourism. By focusing on sectors like petrochemical refining, light manufacturing, the marine industry, agriculture, and technology, St. Croix can experience an industrial resurgence that drives sustainable economic growth.
These industries will not only contribute to a more stable and diversified economy but also create a permanent workforce that can support our tax base. As for tourism, there is an opportunity to develop a more balanced approach by enhancing overnight stays, promoting eco-tourism, cultural experiences, and boutique hospitality that highlights the unique charm of St. Croix. This shift would reduce reliance on cruise tourism, which often brings short-term economic benefits but does not contribute as substantially to the local economy as long-term visitors.
What would you propose to better support people dealing with mental illness, alcoholism, addiction, and homelessness?
Supporting individuals dealing with mental illness, alcoholism, addiction, and homelessness requires a coordinated and comprehensive approach. As a former Deputy Commissioner of Health and acting Director of Mental Health, I have firsthand experience working with this population and understand the complexities of these issues.
In my proposed comprehensive healthcare initiative, I will advocate for the establishment of a dedicated behavioral health facility with permanent, specialized staff. This facility would be an integral part of a broader healthcare plan for the Virgin Islands, providing continuous, accessible care for those struggling with mental health and substance use disorders.
Sustained funding and resources for mental health services are essential in ensuring better prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, ultimately reducing the number of individuals affected by these challenges. Additionally, collaboration with community organizations and social services would be essential to provide holistic support, including housing assistance and vocational training, to address the root causes of homelessness and addiction.
What plans do you have to reestablish the libraries in the territory?
With the support of my colleagues, my plan for reestablishing the libraries in the territory involves transforming them into modern, interactive learning centers. Rather than simply restoring traditional libraries, we should focus on recreating these facilities to serve as hubs for education, technology, and community engagement.
These centers would provide access to digital resources, educational workshops, and hands-on learning opportunities that complement the technological aspects of modern education. By equipping our libraries with advanced tools and resources, we can construct a more dynamic learning environment that benefits students, professionals, and lifelong learners. Securing funding for this transformation will be a priority, ensuring that our libraries evolve to meet the current and future needs of our community.
How can we provide access to affordable healthcare for individuals and small businesses?
Given the challenges of a shrinking market and rising healthcare costs, providing affordable healthcare requires innovative solutions. One approach is to explore a regional healthcare cooperative with Puerto Rico, creating a network that offers basic, affordable coverage across both territories — essentially an “Obamacare Lite” model. This would leverage economies of scale, making healthcare more accessible for individuals and small businesses.
Please tell us about any of your other priorities for the territory that are not addressed in the questions above.
Elderly care is a priority that I hold close to my heart. I intend to collaborate with my colleagues to develop a more comprehensive and dignified system of senior care, ensuring that our aging population receives the support and services they deserve. Additionally, I am committed to addressing the issue of unpaid wages for government employees and outstanding back taxes owed to the community. Resolving these financial obligations would not only honor our commitments but also stimulate the local economy and strengthen our fiscal health.
And finally, if you could have one superpower to move the V.I. forward, what would it be and why?
If I could have one superpower to move the Virgin Islands forward, it would be the ability to bring people together with a shared vision and purpose. Collaboration is the key to progress, and if we could unite diverse perspectives and energies around common goals, we could overcome any challenge. From economic development to education and healthcare, real, sustainable change requires collective effort, and a stronger sense of unity would propel the territory forward.
