The V.I. Budget Crisis: Part 8, Gubernatorial Bloat





Government House. (File photo)


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– Mandating a 30 percent reduction in vehicle use;

– Requiring government cell phones be returned within 30 days;


– Prohibiting government officials from staying overnight in hotels on holidays;










Next: Part 9, Hyperactive Legislating


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  1. Great article on waste Paradise-style:

    How about a Report on the millions of dollars spent annually by the USVI Government on renting private property for offices?

    The under-utilization of its Broadband Network while paying fabulous sums to privately-owned Internet Providers?

    The purchasing of Gasoline for its fleet of vehicles from a particular gas station, on St.
    Thomas, at non-discounted rates?

    The refusal to plant attractive ground cover along the roadsides, which would suppress wild growths of guinea grass and wild tamarind whenever rain falls, and drastically reduce the expenses associated with perpetual cuttings?

  2. Since Act 6905 established the Governor’s salary at $150,000 annually, then why did the Governor suggest that those who favor its reduction should “go to a Constitutional Convention and make that decision as a community”?

    Why a Constitutional Convention? LOL.

    The solution, simply, is that the Legislature itself can repeal or modify that particular aspect of Act 6905 that pertains to the Governor’s salary.

    But then…will Governor Mapp veto or approve a Bill to reduce his salary?

  3. Montana has TEN times the V.I. population at approximately 1,050,000 people. Get the ridiculousness of the situation right. I just jumped on the glaring example of how it is likely TWICE as bad as you are seeing it.

  4. I think this entire series/subject is being approached from the wrong perspective. It seems that all assessments are being based on logic and common sense, with the assumption that the VIG is honestly open to suggestions. After many years of observation of the practices, rhetoric, dissembling, obfuscation, and blame throwing of the VIG, as well as the revolving door of recycled characters I have come to the conclusion there is actually no problem at all. Many well-meaning people (the author included) have tried to offer solutions to the perceived issues, all falling on deaf ears. The VIG and population in general do not respond or acknowledge any of it, and I believe it is because either they see no problems, or they resent the outside assessments of their cabal. As the article states, upper levels of government are well-provided for (you know, once you are confirmed as a commissioner, senator, governor, etc., make sure you get “yours” before you do anything else, and continue to milk it until you are fired and recycled, repeat process again). I honestly believe that trying to fix a system that any logical, honest, intelligent person can see is corrupt and broken is pointless, and frankly unwelcome in the eyes of the VIG.

    • While the above comment is my opinion, it is my hope that article like this, as well as the positive comments of people WILL bring about positive change. It’s only through a groundswell or escalation of constructive criticism that change will occur. Silence encourages the continued abuse of power.

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