Battle lines are being drawn in the sand and senators are taking sides on an override of Gov. John deJongh’s veto of the zoning variance for Sirenusa.
While some senators, such as the bill’s sponsor, Senator Celestino White and Sen. Norman Jn Baptiste, have declared their support of an override, others, including Sen. Neville James, have announced their intention to side with the governor.
Sen. Louis Hill, the only original vote against the variance, maintained his opposition.
The sole legislative voice from St. John, however, is remaining mute.
“I read the governor’s veto message and I am not sure it is legally correct or not,” said Senator at Large Carmen Wesselhoft. “I am still reviewing some other documents that I have received. I am reviewing everything that’s coming before me and I’ll make my decision.”
Wesselhoft voted in favor of the bill the first time around.
The 27th Legislature, in a 13 to 1 vote, approved Enighed Condominiums LLC’s zoning variance request on April 17, allowing the luxury condo developer to construct an additional seven units at its site over looking Cruz Bay.
DeJongh vetoed the bill May 10, deeming it spot zoning.
A measure to override the governor’s veto can be introduced in legislative session at any time. The next legislative session is Tuesday, May 29.