ST. THOMAS – The 35th Legislature of the Virgin Islands, led by Senate President Novelle E. Francis, Jr., convened in a Committee of the Whole to hear testimony on zoning requests and to review the draft Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan. While no votes were taken during the Committee of the Whole, the Senate will take action on these matters during the upcoming session on Wednesday, December 18.
The following zoning measures were discussed:
Bill No. 35-0401
This bill proposes to amend Official Zoning Map No. STZ-10 (ZAT-24-10) for St. Thomas, rezoning Parcel No. 41-51-1 Estate Frydenhoj from R-2 (Residential-Low Density-One and Two Family) to B-4 (Business-Residential). The rezoning would allow for the redevelopment of a two-story building intended for restaurant and office use, with a total of 25 parking spaces. The Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) recommended approval, as the B-4 zoning aligns with the surrounding area. No opposition was raised during the public hearing in September 2024.
Bill No. 35-0406
This bill seeks to rezone Parcel No. 3J-1A Estate Mariendahl, St. Thomas, from R-2 (Residential-Low Density) to B-2 (Business Secondary/Neighborhood). The property owner plans to convert the existing residence into office space and install a potable water standpipe for construction needs. The DPNR also recommended approval, as the mixed-use area supports this change. No opposition was expressed during the public hearing.
Bill No. 35-0407
This bill proposes to rezone Parcel No. N-1-Remainder of Tract 1 Estate Nazareth, St. Thomas, from R-2 (Residential) to P (Public). The Virgin Islands Government plans to develop the area for athletic facilities, including a FIFA-approved soccer field and additional amenities. The proposal received support at the DPNR-CCZP hearing in September 2024, and the Department recommended the rezoning be approved.
Bill No. 35-0421
This zoning request seeks to rezone land in Estate Hogensborg, St. Croix, to allow for a mixed-use development with residential lots and future townhomes. The DPNR recommended approval, noting that the location’s access to utilities and public transportation makes it suitable for such a development. Concerns from nearby property owners regarding flooding, industrial uses, and traffic flow were acknowledged, and mitigation measures will be addressed.
Coastal Zone Permits
The committee also reviewed several coastal zone permit ratifications, including:
- Bill No. 35-0404: Ratifying the Governor’s approval of Minor Coastal Zone Permit No. CZMIW0001-23 for Coakley Plantation, St. Croix, for the installation of pipes for a reverse osmosis plant, allowing for up to 30,000 gallons of potable water per day.
- Bill No. 35-0422: Ratifying Minor Coastal Zone Permit No. CZMIW0002-23 for 555 Madison Investors V, LLC for the installation of a dock and reverse osmosis intake line in St. Thomas.
- Bill No. 35-0424: Ratifying Major Coastal Zone Permit No. CZT-06-21 (L&W) for Jack Rock B-A C, LLC for the development of a marina and associated infrastructure in Estate Nazareth, St. Thomas, with a 75-year permit term.
Each project aims to enhance local infrastructure while mitigating environmental impacts.
Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan
Lawmakers also discussed the draft Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan, a process that began in October 2022. With public feedback from over 1,500 residents through town halls and working groups, the plan prioritizes sustainable development, environmental protection, and enhanced community control over land use. The plan outlines recommendations for St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John, including mixed-use developments, the redevelopment of Cruz Bay, and the maximization of opportunities tied to the National Heritage Area Designation on St. Croix.
Commissioner Jean Pierre Oriol of DPNR emphasized that the adoption of the plan will not alter current regulations. A final vote on the plan is expected by December 2024.
Senators in attendance included Senate President Novelle E. Francis, Jr., and Senators Marvin A. Blyden, Angel L. Bolques, Jr., Samuel Carrión, Diane T. Capehart, Dwayne M. DeGraff, Ray Fonseca, Alma Francis Heyliger, Donna A. Frett-Gregory, Kenneth L. Gittens, Marise C. James, Franklin D. Johnson, Carla J. Joseph, and Milton E. Potter.
The Division of Public Affairs continues to provide the community with accurate and timely information about the Legislature’s proceedings. For more updates, visit legvi.org.
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