On the eve of senatorial elections that could well determine the territory's economic future—or lack of same—the St. Thomas-St. John Chamber of Commerce has released the results of its candidates' questionnaire, asking all those running for a seat to respond in writing on seven issues of critical financial importance.
1. List the three most important initiatives you will introduce and/or support to reduce the deficit of the Government of the Virgin Islands.
Charles Balch
A. Accountability: The best way to insure responsible government is to make spending public knowledge. It is not fair to collect taxes and not explain how the money is spent. The sunshine law is not working in the USVI. Our legal code must be revised to require, at strong penalty, public disclosure of raw spending data. This is accomplished inexpensively in many other US municipalities.
B. Reduce Government: Our government continues to live in a fantasy world that does not and cannot exist. To survive, we must remove a huge number of people from government service. At least at the upper levels, it seems that our government's only purpose is to sustain itself without care for the people it is supposed to represent or the employees that do the real work. Almost every department has too many decision makers who have no authority to "say yes." I will focus on laws and budgets that empower front line employees while reducing middle and upper management.
C. Lead by example: The only senatorial jobs are to review/revise VI code and establish budgets. We don't need 15 full time legislators spending about a million dollars each to do this. Thus, Senator's salaries and numbers are way out of line. Senators should work part time for part time pay.
Craig Barshinger
A. Introduce legislation that current VI Government fund balances, budgets, expenses and receipts be posted on the government website. It is the basis of accountability.
B. Form the Economic Development Authority, consolidating the SBDA, Government Development Bank, Industrial Development Commission, etc.
C. Privatize any government agency that cannot compete with performance markers set by private service providers in other jurisdictions.
Dwayne Benjamin
A. Consolidation of emergency services for the reduction of cost associated with rental and operation for greater efficiency and effectiveness.
B. Development of Governmental Centers, allowing for one stop location of government services.
C. Centralization of government maintenance activities. By the pooling of this resource, a consolidated effort can be achieved to streamline government services requiring this need.
Lorraine L. Berry
I have already supported initiatives to reduce the deficit of the Government. During the 23rd Legislature, I worked to bring fiscal responsibility back to the Legislature. In the 23rd Legislature, my leadership involved the following:
A. Economic Summit, March 18-19, 1999, wherein the private sector, Territorial Government, private citizens, and legislators were able to present ideas to solve our fiscal crisis: 115 proposals were identified, of which many were included in the FY 2001 Budget.
B. Internal Revenue Bureau Inquiry-July-September 2000, was investigated for personnel, leadership, and accounting deficiencies. During the hearings, my committee was able to uncover internal organizational problems, corruption, and malfeasance. The case was forwarded to the Attorney General's office and the Public Corruption Task Force. Roughly 100 million dollars is on the streets due to IRB's defects. My inquiry has begun the turn around process and potentially the critical intervention to solve our fiscal crisis.
C. The Government Financial Accountability Act of 1999 (Act 6289) this legislation sets budgetary checks on the Executive branch, and it provided internal controls on government spending.
I will continue to complete the work started during the 23rd Legislature and also implement the Financial Services Act, and the Technology Enterprise Act.
Wayne Chinnery
Questionnaire not returned
Donald Cole
A. Fund the revenue agencies to collect the taxes owed to the Government.
B. Enforce the Fiscal Accountability Act.
C. Continue to lobby for the return of the Gasoline Excise Taxes.
Roosevelt St. C. David
A. Activation of the Government Development Bank to increase private sector business and employment opportunities.
B. Comprehensive tax reform to include the expansion of 0411 as an economic stimulus and a restructured IDC program with a strong compliance component to ensure local purchasing and employment.
C. Cosponsored the Enterprise Zone Act of 1999, The Government Accountability Act of 1999 and the Virgin Islands Economic Summit of 1999.
Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg
A. Reducing the size of the Legislature to nine members and cutting its budget by at least 25 percent.
B. Reform of the IDC program to include a declining tax break system for all new beneficiaries, and a thorough review, and when possible renegotiations, of existing agreements in order to recoup tax dollars.
C. Elimination of 50 percent of all government vehicles in 2001.
Brian D. Dooley
A. Health Care-Order the St. Thomas Hospital to achieve joint comm. Accreditation, hospital certification -Ask the U.S. Public Health Service to help.
B. Crime-Order change to elect the Attorney General. Use the funds to educate elementary students island wide.
C. Veterans Cemetery-Obtain $5 million grant to upgrade cemeteries on St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix and Water Island.
Carlton Dowe
A. I propose an increase in funding to IRB to put more revenue agents on the street to collect the $100 million in accounts receivable.
B. We need to streamline the process by reducing the amount of time it takes to establish a business in the territory.
C. We need to fast track the projects for which funding exists. For example, we should spend the $22 million for highway expansion and the tens of millions for Warren E. Brown reconstruction.
Gilmore A. Estrill
A. To renegotiate with IDC beneficiaries to return at least 10 percent of their benefits back to the Government in exchange for additional benefits later.
B. Privatize Hospital or strengthen its semi autonomy to insure Virgin Islanders stop flying off island for services.
C. Increase Tourism budget and consolidate government offices.
Stephen "Smokey" Frett
A. Reduction of personal service contracts.
B. Provide revenue producing and collecting agencies with the resources necessary to increase their productivity.
C. Disallow sitting governor's and their Administration to negotiate salary and wage increases beyond their term in office. This would significantly reduce carry-over debt from one administration to the next.
Judy M. Gomez
A. Boost the agencies and departments responsible for the billing and collection of revenues, so that the millions of dollars in outstanding accounts receivable may be collected.
B. The construction of a Turnkey Government Complex to cut back on the large amount of monies spent for rentals.
C. Centralize the Government's procurement, warehousing and distribution functions.
George Goodwin
A. Vigorously seek Federal funding of the Earned Income Credit.
B. We must continue to seek Federal support for the return of a just portion of the Gasoline Excise Tax.
C. Continue to seek an extension of a shopper's visa waiver for the other Caribbean Islands.
Justin Harrigan, Sr.
A. I would reduce the number of government employees through attrition and implement a strict hiring freeze.
B. I would introduce legislation to divest the government of some services it now provides. Examples are garbage collection, operation of the parking lots, school lunch services, etc.
C. I would put the government ON A FLEXTIME operational basis; reduce lighting in b
uildings; auction off some vehicles from the government fleet; establish a central public relations office and eliminate the many public relations positions throughout the government.
Franke A. Hoheb
A. Consolidate government offices and build a government office complex to avoid office rentals on the private market.
B. Standardize and limit the number of government vehicles.
C. Privatize some essential services, e.g., garbage removal and school repairs.
Almando "Rocky" Liburd
A. Early Retirement Incentives.
B. Investment restructuring of the Industrial Development Commission.
C. Restructuring of the Department of Education.
Herbie Lockhart, III
A. Complete analysis of the Department of Education. Where is all the federal and local money going?
B. Move to help Taxis get into the Water Taxi business.
C. Look at IDC and make beneficiaries pay a fee for staffing. Monitoring and compliance of IDC.
Dean Luke
A. To renegotiate with IDC beneficiaries to return at least 10 percent of their benefits back to the Government in exchange for additional benefits later.
B. Privatize Hospital or strengthen its semi autonomy to insure Virgin Islanders stop flying off island for services.
C. Increase Tourism budget and consolidate government offices.
Christopher Keith Massac
Cut expenditures and increase revenues.
Tyrone Martin
A. Introduce legislation authorizing the Governor to seek professional assistance from the Interior Department for free-of-charge Internal Revenue agents to assist us in collecting the outstanding millions owed to the government.
B. Initiate legislation for the reform of the Industrial Development Commission including proper staffing for the aggressive solicitation of new businesses, which will increase our revenues.
C. Support plans for review of government expenditures and for a reduction of the number of unnecessary positions in the government and supporting the privatization of certain functions of the government.
Vinnie Mohanani
A. The Five-Year Recovery Plan.
B. Tourism Authority.
C. Education and Election reform.
Wilma Marsh Monsanto
Cut waste in government through Line Item budgeting which shows vacant and new positions are deleted – justification for materials, goods and services. Guidelines for spending appropriated funds must be outlined and submitted to the Legislature before assigning funds to any Executive Branch entity or Department.
Michael Paiewonsky
A. Cut Senate back to $5 million (save $10 million)
B. Reduce inter-island traveling costs to $5 million (save $15 million). Reestablish island councils (made up of seven district Senators each for St. Croix and St. Thomas; for St. John the at-large Senator plus two new St. John Council members. The territorial Senate of 15 members would meet for only two short sessions. Devolve to each island that which is best done locally, such as Public Works, School Operations, Housing, Zoning, Parks and Recreation, Purchasing and the Fire Department. Perhaps Agriculture, Environmental Protection, Police, and Justice should be territorial in organization. This will cut the need of much inter-island government travel. Obtain a fast ocean capable vessel to eliminate government inter-island air travel, and to facilitate local and tourist movement and to create a single work and price market for the 110,000 Virgin Islanders. The ship must travel a minimum of 40knts p/h and if obtained under the Federal Highway program cost no more than $7 one-way. Hence VI expenditure of $ 5million per year.
C. Control the QUAGOS – The Quasi-Government Organizations. On the face of it, GERS, The West Indian Company, and Port Authority need a major audit and review as to value for dollars, the wisdom of the existing structure of each organization and how we can deal with conflicts between the legal requirements of each organization and the reality of our overall economic needs.
Willis Phillips
Questionnaire not returned.
Riise E. S. Richards
A. Economic Revitalization initiatives that would broaden the revenue base, create jobs and eventually reduce Gross Receipt taxes.
B. Enforcement of collection of outstanding receivables.
C. Prohibit the hiring and rehiring of retired persons.
Norma P. Samuel
A. Work on restructuring our tax system and the institution of a tax board.
B. Stiff penalty for waste, fraud and abuse within the Government.
C. Support Capitol Improvement Projects in order to circulate money in our economy.
Glen J. Smith
A. I would favor reducing senator's salaries to $50,000 with no more than eight standing committees including the reduction of per diem for off-island travel.
B. I would support a balanced budget, which includes a position supplement.
C. I would support legislation to centralize procurement of government contracting goods/services.
Gaylord Sprauve
A. I believe that the budget of the Legislature should be reduced to a ceiling of approximately $10 million and that all costs associated with operating that institution be reduced accordingly, including senatorial compensation, if that is required to operate within the established ceiling.
B. In view of the persistent reference to the unsettled Gasoline Excise Tax matter and the current financial plight of the Virgin Islands Government, I believe that the Legislature, in consort with the Delegate to Congress' assistance, should select a delegation of its members to travel to Washington for an appearance before the appropriate Congressional committees in an attempt to place on the public record the Virgin Islands plight and the relationship of our current situation to the unresolved issues on the territory's claim to these monies.
C. I am unable to understand why strict enforcement of the often-announced ban on the personal use of government vehicles after hours and on weekends lasts only for very short periods of time. I will promote enforcement of this ban with appropriate legislation that clearly expresses the public policy on the matter and I would use the oversight authority of the appropriate legislative committee to maintain focus on the issue through regular and continuous challenges of department and agency heads appearing before the legislature.
Celestino White
Questionnaire not returned.
2. What do you think accounts for the loss of over 7,000 private sector jobs in the last five years?
Charles V. Balch
A. We are in a vicious cycle. Government revenue is decreasing. As revenue decreases, infrastructure crumbles, taxes are increased and payments are not made. Advertising funds are raided. All of theses issues combine to drive away business. All of these issues need to be addressed.
Craig Barshinger
A. Robust USA economy offers greener pastures off island.
B. Crisis in leadership. Businesses fear an unstable, unfriendly business climate.
C. VI Government creates an unfair competition for workers. Business must be competitive and efficient to survive, Government believes itself exempt from efficiency and productivity.
Dwayne Benjamin
A. Bad attitude towards business-Anti business.
B. Decline in Government overall efficiency and services.
C. Lack of confidence in public officials to develop economic stimuli to bring about prosperity and development.
Lorraine L. Berry
Our economic slump is the result of many factors. They are: several hurricanes, poor political leadership in attracting new capital; a hostile anti-business mood among legislators; high airline taxes, crime and shifts in the global marketplace.
Wayne Chinnery
Questionnaire not returned.
Donald Cole
A. The hostile environment in which businesses have to operate.
B. The impact of major storms.
C. The government's inability to pay its vendors.
Roosevelt St. C. David
A. The paradigm shift of tourism to cruise ship visitors more than overnight visitors.
B. Increa
sed Crime.
C. The lack of advertising the Virgin Islands as a tourist destination. Additionally, failure on the part of elected officials to create and maintain an atmosphere conducive for business. The yachting industry, for example, left for friendlier environments.
Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg
A. Hurricanes have been a contributing factor, but the stagnation of the economy can be blamed in large part on a bankrupt government unable to provide basic services and to pay its local vendors. These government shortfalls and mismanagement have deeply wounded overnight tourism in particular as the V.I. has failed to effectively market and package our destination.
Brian D. Dooley
A. Too much red tape.
B. 4 percent Gross Receipts Tax.
C. High rent and utilities.
Carlton Dowe
A. The impact of the three severe hurricanes and their aftermath. Also, the length of time it takes to start a new business and the business unfriendly attitudes of some of our Senators.
Gilmore A. Estrill
The Legislatures inability to pass conducive laws to attract more visitors thereby stimulating economic activity.
Stephen "Smokey" Frett
The high cost of doing business in the territory.
Judy M. Gomez
I attribute the loss of many private sector jobs within the last five years to the failure of the Government to stimulate private sector growth and development.
George Goodwin
The financial decline in the economy and the lack of confidence in the ability of the government to manage its resources, and turn the economy around.
Justin Harrigan, Sr.
The many hurricanes that we have experienced; the decline in the quality of life; the advent of E-Commerce and the Global Economy reaching the Virgin Islands.
Franke A. Hoheb
A. Inequitable distribution of the Gross Receipts Tax. Liability of, e.g., $400 one year and $81,000 the next year is disproportionate. Businesses need a more reliable way to determine tax liability from one year to the next.
B. Cost of doing business in the Virgin Islands.
C. Cumbersome laws regarding termination of employees.

Almando "Rocky" Liburd
A. The unfriendly business climate which exist in the territory.
B. Competition.
C. The high cost of doing business in the Virgin Islands.
Herbie Lockhart, III
Government red tape and government misuse of funds and no enforcement of existing laws.
Dean Luke
The Legislatures inability to pass conducive laws to attract more visitors thereby stimulating economic activity.
Christopher Keith Massac
Technology, streamlined management, slow season and hurricanes.
Tyrone Martin
During the past five years the Virgin Islands has suffered two major hurricanes and several others that were not devastating. Hundreds of local businesses have gone bankrupt, resulting in the loss of private sector jobs during this period. Many other businesses have closed because of our elected representatives. The government has done virtually nothing during that time to attract new businesses and create more private sector jobs.
Vinnie Mohanani
Hurricanes, Cost of Living, Cost of and quality of education, affordable housing, insurance and seasonal business.
Wilma Monsanto
The failure to retain and circulate monies in the territory is the major cause of our economic breakdown. Stop the gap where millions leave the territory every week. The lack of investment in private business also is responsible for the loss of jobs.
Michael Paiewonsky
A lousy environment. It is too much trouble to do anything. The burden on small business is an outrage. The failure to zone so that this or that is clearly doable or not.
Willis Phillips
Questionnaire not returned
Riise E. S. Richards
No plan for growth and development for the entire territory. Too much government regulation and burdensome taxes.
Norma P. Samuel
A. The government unwillingness to understand the importance of promoting the Territory.
B. The high taxation rate that is levied on businesses.
C. Refusal to address the Federal Laws that killed our Marine Industry.
Glen J. Smith
A. It is the failure of the Executive and Legislative Branches to foster a real partnership with the private sector based on mutual trust and respect.
B. Many of the laws and government policies to attract major industry to our shores are antiquated.
C. We have failed to identify and maintain qualified, competent individuals to place in the cabinet of the Executive branch.
D. The high crime rate in the Virgin Islands have deterred potential investors to the island.
E. The competition from our neighboring islands and the visiting cruise ships (who offer lower prices for similar products) have all contributed to our loss over the years.
Gaylord A. Sprauve
The downturn in our economy due to more aggressive regional competition compounded by continuing high cost of travel to the territory by the airlines that we depend upon for moving our guests to and from our destination. Additionally, limited advertising of our destination is a contributing factor to depressed business activity. High operating costs, including rent and utility costs all have contributed to increased pressure on businesses with the resulting closing of many.
Celestino White
Questionnaire not returned
3. List in order of importance the areas of economic activity that you think should receive tax incentives as a means of job generation.
Charles V. Balch
A. Privatization of government.
B. As noted above, our current tax structure is not probusiness. Business as a whole needs a tax break.
Craig Barshinger
A. The Marine Industry. We drove it away to Tortola, lure/woo it back. Retain the sportfishing industry. It's imperiled.
B. micro loan method of promoting small business is perfect for our community. Devote funds to educating and supporting the start-up of small businesses.
C. Tax incentives for producers of local crafts and cultural items.
Dwayne Benjamin
A. Tourism based related activities such as hotels, airlines, and home porting cruise lines.
B. Public/Private partnerships as an aid for start-up and jump starting activity such as medical long term facilities and retirement community for the elderly.
C. Utilities: garbage, sewage, wastes management, etc.
Lorraine L. Berry
A. E-commerce is the new form of economic activity in the global marketplace; it needs all the support we can possibly give.
B. Hotel industry and its ancillary services.
C. Financial Services.
Wayne Chinnery
Questionnaire not returned
Donald Cole
A. Intellectual Properties.
B. Manufacturing Firms.
C. Assembly Operations.
Roosevelt St. C. David
A. Attraction and development of tourist-related activities.
B. Companies associated with information technology.
C. Financial Service companies.
D. Technology related companies.
Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg
A. Software and non polluting high technology oriented industry.
B. Health care and related businesses that bring jobs and offer expanded services to residents.
C. E-Commerce and financial service businesses that commit to hiring and training local workers.
Brian D. Dooley
A. "Cannery" in Crown Bay and on St. Croix, jobs that can help fishermen and locals for years to come.
B. Cigarette Factory-decriminalize marijuana. Jobs to sell medical marijuana to stateside hospitals.
C. Farmers, we need to create fishing, farming crops, farming animals to become self sufficient.
Carlton Dowe
A. Financial Services.
B. Aquaculture and other agribusinesses.
C. Light manufacturing.
Gilmore A. Estrill
A. Tourism
B. Agriculture
C. Construction
Stephen "Smokey" Frett
A. Agriculture
B. Manufacturing and/or assembling of items consumed by people of this territo
ry on a daily basis.
C. Marine activities (e.g., manufacturing, repairing, etc.)
Judy M. Gomez
I believe that non polluting industries should receive tax incentives as a means of job generation.
George Goodwin
A. Hotels
B. Manufactures
C. Construction of lower and middle income homes.
Justin Harrigan, Sr.
A. Computer components manufacturing and assembly plant; computer software design and production.
B. Financial management and consulting firms; some tourism related ventures.
C. Medical equipment design and production.
Franke A. Hoheb
A. Hotel industry.
B. Marine industry.
C. Local businesses employing more than 30 people, but shorten the time period allowed for tax incentives.
Almando "Rocky" Liburd
A. Any businesses providing educational and health care related services.
B. Any businesses providing affordable housing opportunities.
C. Any businesses bringing new age technology into the territory.
Herbie Lockhart, III
A. New companies that are part of the internet.
B. Software companies.
C. Non polluting businesses.
Dean Luke
A. Tourism
B. Agriculture
C. Construction
Christopher Keith Massa
A. Industry like canneries
B. Vehicle assembly plants (St. Croix)
C. Lite and non polluting industries.
D. Small businesses.
Tyrone Martin
A. Hotel Industry
B. Manufacturing industry including watch making, pharmaceutical, and plastics.
C. Construction Industry.
Vinnie Mohanani
A. Capital intensive development, ie hotels-St. Croix, Waste to energy plant, home porting, St. Thomas and St. Croix.
B. Solar related research and development, high tech research and development, medical research and development.
C. Manufacturing and E-Commerce.
Wilma Marsh Monsanto
A. Any new business coming into our territory which would hire 25 or more employees.
B. Technical industries- high-tech non polluting, an estimated 100 employees.
C. Manufacturing, communication and the marine industry in the form of ship yards.
Michael Paiewonsky
I think elimination of all taxes and use of our right to lower Income Tax by 10%, would create a boom. We must be prepared to control our recovery would be so rapid.
Willis Phillips
Questionnaire not returned
Riise Richards
A. Manufacturing – Light.
B. Agriculture
C. Tourist-based businesses.
Norma P. Samuel
A. E-Commerce
B. High Tech Manufacturers
C. Cultural Theme Parks.
Glen J. Smith
A. Yachting/Boating Industry.
B. E-Commerce business such as perfume, jewelry, etc.
C. Solid waste management/recycling of paper, glass and plastics.
D. Light manufacturing industries.
Gaylord A. Sprauve
A. It is probably quite likely that the answer to this question will differ depending on the island district that is under consideration. The potentialities of St. Croix to accommodate certain industries clearly allow for different industries than would be the case on St. Thomas. On St. Thomas, I believe, that we are limited by the unavailability of adequate space to construct any meaningful sized physical plant facilities for large scale industries. Except for bulldozing hillsides to create level land for construction, all desirable land appears to be vulnerable to building more homes. As a result of this mix of circumstances, tax incentives as a means of job creation will of necessity be limited to smaller scale business undertakings in high technology areas.
B. Water Sports and marine activities, including the successful revitalization of a charter boat industry that involves local residents at all levels of these activities.
C. Aquaculture activity that maximizes use of the natural resources available to us in the scientific production of food products usable by both residents and visitors alike and for possible export.
Celestino White
Questionnaire not returned
4. What are your three action priorities to restore private sector jobs to the Virgin Islands?
Charles V. Balch
A. Privatize government.
B. Pay government bills in a timely manner.
C. Improve our infrastructure.
Craig Barshinger
A. Stop borrowing money to fund a bloated government payroll. Let the job market find a natural equilibrium private sector will benefit.
B. Micro loan programs to encourage free enterprise and a personal sense of entrepreneurship.
C. Privatization may be necessary to break us out of the "public sector rut."
Dwayne Benjamin
A. The creation of private/public partnership relating to our tourism industry, i.e., a tourism board made of members and organizations with vested interest.
B. Privatization of some services provided by government, i.e., transportation, waste collection and management and central motor pool.
C. Expansion of exemption of products-businesses is the backbone of government resources. Provide businesses with all possible benefits for success. If businesses are successful government will be successful.
Lorraine L. Berry
A. Maximize hotel room tax collections for advertising and create a time share occupancy tax of $5 a day to increase advertising.
B. Restore former wholesaler 5 percent incentive program.
C. Create a local Fiscal Control Board that will initiate the necessary reforms to reduce government spending.
Wayne Chinnery
Questionnaire not returned
Donald Cole
A. One stop shop to acquire business assistance.
B. Create a more friendly business environment.
C. Revamp the IDC law.
Roosevelt St. C. David
A. Immediate allocation of advertising funds for tourism in the FY 2001 Budget.
B. Restructuring of the IDC program to include a strong compliance component related to purchasing and employment.
C. Hold the lid on taxes and perform a study to determine what method of taxation is most appropriate for building the private sector.
Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg
A. Reducing Gross Receipt taxes for all businesses in order to stimulate private sector growth.
B. Reform and expansion of the Government Development Bank in order to provide new opportunities for Virgin Islands entrepreneurs.
C. Increasing funding for tourism advertising and improving marketing strategies.
Brian Dooley
A. Decrease to 2 percent the Gross Receipts tax for four years.
B. Encourage the marine industry to return by reducing/eliminating Port Authority fees.
C. Assist taxi associations to involve themselves in water taxi service to decrease traffic congestion.
Carlton Dowe
A. We need to drastically reduce the red tape and the time it takes to establish a new business.
B. We need to increase funding to IDC to solicit more business opportunities.
C. We need to restructure the tax system to lessen the burden on businesses without causing a revenue loss to the Treasury.
Gilmore A. Estrill
A. Increase the Tourism Advertising budget from $6 million to $30 million.
B. Identify funds to improve infrastructure creating construction related jobs.
C. Invest in industries and agriculture for St. Croix and St. Thomas.
Stephen "Smokey" Frett
A. Control of rent/cost of real estate.
B. Bringing the Small Business Development Bank into full operation.
C. Making capital more easily accessible to local people to start up businesses.
Judy M. Gomez
A. Comprehensive reform and marketing of the IDC program.
B. Market St. Croix as a casino destination.
C. Revitalize the Government Development Bank to encourage entrepreneurship.
George Goodwin
A. We must improve, develop and maintain our tourist attraction facilities and events. Enhance all areas of the service business.
B. Work with the major airlines and our travel agents to reduce airline cost and increase the number of airline seats to the Virgin Islands.
C. We must forge our way into internet gaming and create a site within the territ
ory for world class internet casino gaming.
Justin Harrigan, Sr.
A. Fund the Government Development Bank and actively seek businesses to participate in the program.
B. Divest the government of some services it now performs and encourage the establishment of locally owned small businesses to perform these activities.
Implement a 2 percent Gross Receipts Tax on New start-up businesses for a three-year period; Increase the Gross Receipt Tax by 1 percent each year until the cap of 4 percent is reached.
Franke A. Hoheb
A. Consolidate the new business application process into one department to avoid new prospects visiting several government offices.
B. Lower the cost of doing business in the Virgin Islands by changing ineffective business regulations and instituting a more business friendly environment.
C. Reorganize the Industrial Development Commission, Government Development Bank and Film Promotion offices.
Almando "Rocky" Liburd
A. Reduction of Gross Receipt taxes on a year to year basis.
B. Offer IDC benefits to small businesses.
C. Support any legislation that will try and secure funding to the Community Development Bank so that small businesses will be able to go and get the necessary loans needed for operation.
Herbie Lockhart, III
A. Encourage the government to solicit software companies based in the California.
B. One stop business licensing.
C. Consolidate government agencies .
Dean Luke
A. Increase the Tourism Advertising budget from $6 million to $30 million.
B. Identify funds to improve infrastructure creating construction related jobs.
C. Invest in industries and agriculture for St. Croix and St. Thomas.
Christopher Keith Massac
A. Industry like canning.
B. Vehicle assembly plants.
C. Lite and non polluting industries.
D. Small businesses.
Tyrone Martin
A. Attract more non polluting, labor intensive businesses to locate in the Virgin Islands.
B. Fund the reformed Industrial Development Commission so that it is able to perform responsibilities mandated by law.
C. Activate the Tax Reform Commission to review existing tax structure for the purpose of amendments to our tax laws resulting in some relief to our business community.
Vinnie Mohanani
A. Increase funding targeted to overnight visitors for tourism advertising.
B. Lure back the marine industry and home porting on St. Croix.
C. Work to provide quality education and affordable housing to middle class families.
Wilma Marsh Monsanto
A. Overhaul the construction industry.
B. Road improvement.
C. Adequate transportation services for land, sea and air.
Michael Paiewonsky
I repeat: I think elimination of all taxes and use of our right to lower Income Tax by 10 percent would create a boom we must be prepared to control our recovery would be so rapid.
Willis Phillips
Questionnaire not returned
Riise E. S. Richards
A. Training and retraining of students and residents in specialized areas.
B. Reduce or improve upon the licensing process.
C. Provide incentives for businesses to succeed and grow.
Norma P. Samuel
A. Support the Tourism Policy Act.
B. Lobby for changes to Federal Laws restore our marine industry.
C. Introduce and support legislation to reduce taxes on businesses.
D. Support capital improvement projects.
Glen J. Smith
A. Restructure, through legislation, our Territory's agencies which are geared towards building our private sector, by placing them under one umbrella. We need a "one-step" operation instead of the "run-all-over-town" procedure to establish business in our territory.
B. Meet with potential local, national, and internet investors to ascertain what role the USVI Legislature could perform to assist with any plans they may have to relocate and establish a business in our territory.
C. Join with other territories to lobby Congress with the intention of securing legislation which could grant us "special exemptions" under the Caribbean Basin Initiative for us to have an Economic Recovery Program.
D. The Cruise Ship Industry, USVI Government, and private sector leaders must identify a process for our territory to secure more spending by the passengers in our stores! Main Street merchants compete head-to-head with cruise ships who are selling many of the same products at lower prices. We are losing to this head-on competition. In addition capitalization of the VI Government Development Bank to provide technical/financial support to small businesses in particular. Develop a memorandum of understanding between US SBA to guarantee business loans as required by federal guidelines.
Gaylord A. Sprauve
A. I am interested in an exhaustive review of the IDC program to ensure that there is a fair exchange between the benefits that our program offers to others wishing to locate in the territory and the benefits that the territory receives from these arrangements. I will not participate in bashing businesses coming into the territory, but I will examine closely the value of the exchanges that are involved between our government and/or existing businesses. Unlike many in our community with an opinion on this matter, I am ill prepared at this time to conclude that current exchanges are disadvantageous to the territory. I need adequate information before drawing a conclusion on this matter.
B. I am also interested in undertaking a thorough review of all major laws, rules, and regulations associated with establishing a business and maintaining one in the territory. This review will ensure that only those laws, rules and regulations that are actually necessary to develop and maintain a legal business operation and to provide government with information necessary to keep track of these operations within the territory will remain on the law books of the territory. The intended result of this review is to minimize the high levels of frustration business people experience attempting to conduct business in the territory.
I am interested in reviewing our vocational and technical provisions of the Virgin Islands Public School Curriculum with an aim towards influencing modifications to that curriculum to provide for the creation of adequate education and training for students seeking opportunities in the New Economy that is fast approaching the territory. I am considering a proposal for the creation of a vocational and technical facility that is separate and apart from the comprehensive high schools in this district. Though separate, I can envision my proposed technical institute and the high schools working closely together in offering a full range of educational opportunities for our youngsters. With this cross training our students will be better equipped to participate in the changes in the New Economy that are racing speedily in our direction.
5. What specific initiatives will you take to rebuild our marine industry?
Charles V. Balch
Legislators write laws and establish budgets. The VI Senate cannot write Laws that are in conflict with federal code. That said, our Port Authority and DPNR have a history of being anti small marine. I would like to see more anchorages opened up, hurricane anchorages prepared and organized ahead of time, more pump stations, and increased day-use moorings in our more popular day anchorages.
Craig Barshinger
A. Retain the Sports Fishing industry. We haven't lost it yet, but we may lose it to the BVI imminently.
B. 300 foot car passenger ferries to link St. Thomas and St. Croix.
C. Amend Title 29, Chapter 10, Section 582. Encourage water taxis. Repeal the Act of 1986.12.29 prohibiting water taxis.
Dwayne Benjamin
Support and identify funds for the development of our marine industry. Unless we can provide all the services that our boating industry needs, such as provisioning, docking, pump-out, etc. It will be hard to rebuild. Develop marine infrastructure.
Lorraine L. Berry

I would reduce the existing fees by 50 percent and actively promote the Virgin Islands a home of the marine industry. Also lobby for the Coast Guard to change the six-pack rule.
Wayne Chinnery
Questionnaire not returned
Donald Cole
Continue to lobby for the repeal of the six-pack rule. Lobby the insurance companies to give insurance to these boat owners during the hurricane season.
Roosevelt St. C. David
I am proposing a marine industry advisory council to facilitate all related services to include DPNR, Licensing, Public Safety, etc.
Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg
A. Negotiate with the Federal Government in order to change some of the restrictions as they apply to foreign vessels entering our ports.
B. Implementation of the laws now on the books requiring the development of a marine academy.
C. Development of eco tourism and a Territorial Park System to include offshore cays and underwater trails, which will ensure that the Virgin Islands remains a primary destination for divers and boaters.
Brian D. Dooley
A. Decrease Port Authority Fees.
B. Increase amphibious cars on island with tax rebates.
C. Auction seized boats to increase number of fishermen/cannery operations.
Carlton Dowe
The marine industry will reestablish itself once the six-pack rule has been repealed, and the Yacht Haven Hotel has been reconstructed.
Gilmore A. Estrill
Will have to research the industry before giving an answer.
Stephen "Smokey" Frett
Develop and implement a marine curriculum in public schools from grades 7-12. We must also review the taxes associated with this industry as compared to other competing jurisdictions and make necessary adjustments.
Judy M. Gomez
To rebuild our marine industry, I will recommend or support that the Tourism Department conduct and extensive promotion and advertisement campaign of the Virgin Islands as a Marine Haven.
George Goodwin
Working with the industry to remove the barriers that continue to discourage the operators of the industry. For example, the six-pack rule imposed by the Federal Government and lack of a permanent arrangement with the British Virgin Islands for fishing in their waters.
Justin Harrigan, Sr.
A. Investigate the feasibility of establishing a marine training institute. In addition to training, this institute would educate the masses about the many opportunities within the industry.
B. Have the Delegate petition the Interior Department/The U.S. Congress to remove the cap of six (6) persons for bare boat charters.
C. Require that all students learn how to swim prior to graduation from High School. This requirement will facilitate these persons being able to obtain a job in the industry.
Franke A. Hoheb
Aggressively promote the Virgin Islands marine industry in the boating publications and by commissioning a task force of individuals from the marine and business community to determine what is necessary to attract new and former marine businesses back to the territory.
Almando "Rocky" Liburd
A. Offer IDC incentives to help lure marine businesses to the VI.
B. Introduce legislation for the training of local entrepreneurs to become involved in the marine industry.
C. Try to develop the Virgin Islands as a main hub in the Caribbean where marine outboard mechanics are stationed.
Herbie Lockhart, III
Go back to existing programs. Offer incentives that can out compete the BVI.
Dean Luke
Will have to research the industry before giving an answer.
Christopher Keith Massac
A. Look at our fee structure.
B. Look more closely at IDC benefits tailored to the marine industry.
C. A joint effort in rebuilding our existing marinas.
Tyrone Martin
A. Change our VI Laws to become more competitive with our next door neighbors, B.V.I. and Puerto Rico.
B. Reestablish the Marine Industry Task Force to include members of the industry and appropriate government officials.
C. Petition the Congress of the United States to eliminate the "six-pack" rule, which has an adverse effect on our marine industry.
Vinnie Mohanani
I am willing to support our Delegate in getting an exemption to the six-pack rule. I will support the existing marine industry members to do what is necessary to lure the industry back.
Wilma Marsh Monsanto
Secure federal funding, i.e. Clean Water Legislation or any environmental funding to provide pump out stations, then more for positive revival of said economy.
Michael Paiewonsky
A. Retrieve all lost fish pots. Look to import from Haiti short lasting natural pots or find equivalent solution.
B. Choose certain wetlands/lagoons for permanent protection both from adjacent land use and from fishing.
Willis Phillips
Questionnaire not returned
Riise E.S. Richards
A. Reduce and/or eliminate the excessive regulations, for example, the six pack law.
B. Improve the mooring facilities and amenities that are supported by this industry.
Norma P. Samuel
A. Lobby for changes in Federal Laws.
Glen J. Smith
Simple. Enact legislation, which would give the U.S. Virgin Islands a competitive edge over our neighbors. Lobby Congress, Interior and the Coast Guard to secure an exemption or modification to the "6 inch" rule.
Gaylord A. Sprauve
We effectively chased the marine industry from the territory with unfriendly chatter over the years combined with increasing costs to operate and maintain boats and equipment. Over regulation also contributed to the loss of the industry to the UVI. It is difficult to get folks to address the status issue that until settled, takes out of our hands full regulation of this most important industry to the economic life of our territory. With the numerous federal laws, rules and regulations that apply across the U.S. generally also being made applicable to our small territory, it is difficult to compete with our neighbors who are not subjected to the same onerous regulations that are applicable to us. To the extent that local laws are a part of the reason for us losing the industry, I will undertake a review of those laws to ease them through legislation to allow the USVI to better compete with our neighbors in the BVI. To the extent that the factors contributing to the loss on the industry are outside of our control, we must continue to seek exceptions to those laws, rules and regulations that are harming the rebirth of the industry in the territory. A better-defined STATUS in our relationship with the United States holds a major part of the answer to this question!
Celestino White
Questionnaire not returned
6. How will you propose to allocate increased funding to the Police Department, given its direct link to economic activity, based on the current financial position of the Government of the Virgin Islands?
Charles V. Balch
A. Much of the problem that we have in the islands is that there are too many "chiefs" making decisions to the point that no one is sure who makes what decision. I'm not in favor of micro management but the legislature can do some things to change policy in the Executive area. I would use line item budgets to drastically reduce the bloated middle and upper management employee numbers in the police department. The money thus saved would be allocated to increase the salary, equipment and training of line officers.
Craig Barshinger
A. Have open books, and then allocate specific funding sources such as tourism-related income to fund police training, increased foot, bicycle, and car patrols. No more "General Fund" sinkholes.
Dwayne Benjamin
A. Mandate the utilization of the President's Crime Bill, which allows for jurisdictions to receive, grants for all areas of law enforcement, i.e., training, vehicles, equipment, and funding for more police officers.
Lorraine L. Berry
A. We need to
actively seek federal funds to assist the Police Department and utilize them in a timely manner. Presently, at least four years of federal grants are sitting idly in the Law Enforcement Planning Commission while police officers must hitchhike to crime scenes. These funds must be immediately accessed, and I will propose a grants man be hired to facilitate this if there is no expertise available.
Wayne Chinnery
Questionnaire not returned
Donald Cole
The allocation of the one-dollar phone surcharge must be given to the Police Department.
Roosevelt St. C. David
A. Public Safety, i.e., the Police Department requires a line item budget to ensure the proper allocation of funds, especially in the areas of personnel deployment and equipment purchases. Additionally, police personnel must be removed from clerical positions and returned to police duty.
B. Provision of equipment and supplies for police through the restructuring of the Law Enforcement Planning Commission.
Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg
A. Enforcement of a law now on the books I designed to generate funds through the publication of a quarterly newsletter featuring seized and unclaimed property. The police department would generate revenues through both the sale of subscriptions to this publication and increased participation at the auctions themselves.
B. I also support an ocean carrier tax with 25 percent of all revenues dedicated to public safety, as our law enforcement officers are also charged with protecting the many visitors that disembark each year. These and other costs cannot continue to be wholly absorbed by small business and middle class wage earners.
Brian D. Dooley
Ask officers to either enforce laws or leave. The Governor could request Federal Marshals if pressured.
Carlton Dowe
Utilize all money from the 1995 Crime Bill and other federal grants. The Emergency Service Act.
Gilmore A. Estrill
Enforcement of the IDC program. Mandate 10 percent of IDC beneficiaries into a Police Revolving Fund.
Stephen "Smokey" Frett
We must prioritize our spending and our allocation of resources. Top priority must be given to those entities that affect the social and economic well being of this territory-of which, the police is one.
Judy M. Gomez
To provide increased funding to the Police Department, given its direct link to economic activity, we should implement a $2.50 Head Tax on all cruise ship passengers, and increase the amount of officers in areas heavily traversed by tourists. Additionally, money spent on overtime and monies realized from not funding vacant positions should be reallocated to this department.
George Goodwin
With the creation of a world class Internet Casino Gaming venue, the revenues from this creation can fund all increases for the Police Department and other government agencies.
Justin Harrigan, Sr.
Once proper funding has been obtained, I would recommend that modern facilities be built, equipment and supplies be procured in sufficient quantities and more police personnel be hired and paid an adequate salary.
Franke A. Hoheb
Apply for Federal funding specifically for local police departments. I will also support initiatives to have police department budget "untouchable." Will also support better utilization of police personnel on desk duty and to assign more street patrol officers in high crime and tourist areas.
Almando "Rocky" Liburd
The Executive and Legislative branch of government are going to have to sit down and make it their priority to find additional funding for the Police Department. This must be a priority if we want to create an environment where residents and visitors feel safe.
Herbie Lockhart, III
Utilize a parking system downtown to help fund this department.
Christopher Keith Massac
Let's talk to Tourism and the Port Authority.
Tyrone Martin
I will propose legislation that mandates that once a budget is approved by the legislature for the Police Department, it cannot be reduced during the fiscal year by the Governor of the Budget Director.
Vinnie Mohanani
Identify a specific source of funding.
Wilma Marsh Monsanto
No response
Michael Paiewonsky
I think the elimination of all taxes and use of our right to lower Income Tax by 10 percent would create a boom we must be prepared to control our recovery would be so rapid. The savings listed from Senate costs and from inter-island travel and from government cars must be proportioned to Police, Hospital, Teachers, Fireman and VIBIR and the $50 million or so interest on our 1 billion 600 million-bond debt.
Willis Phillips
Questionnaire not returned
Riise E.S. Richards
Through one of my economic initiatives, the packaging of music festivals, where the money would be specifically for emergency service providers. Continue to pursue federal funds to augment our police budget.
Norma P. Samuel
By first cutting the Administration private security force and making Public Safety one of our major priorities recognizing the fact that if citizens are safe so is our visitor.
Glen J. Smith
We must tap every resource of the Federal Government, including The Department of Interior, FBI, Immigration, AFT, etc. Many of our crime/drug problems are linked to national and international criminal activities. These criminals have access to weapons and technology, which surpasses those of our local police.
Gaylord A. Sprauve
I have objected to the manner in which the operational budget of the Virgin Islands has been developed over the years. There has been a virtual abandonment of the legislative role in determining the priority of spending in the territory. As I see it, public safety is the number 2 priority for public spending after spending for health care in the territory. Every Governor in recent times speaks of education as the number 1 priority. This sounds good and the refrain is heard often, while in reality Education, though important ranks in my personal judgment, as either no.3 or #4 in priority for public spending. Additionally, the total scuttling of Act 4440 which no one is willing to address needs to be accomplished and an orderly return to a merit-type system that provides for regular, though small annual increments and other changes are needed for better management of our limited financial resources to address the needs of all of our public employees. I am not sure that the territory can continue to afford financially, its current curriculum offerings in its public schools. When other jurisdictions found it necessary to cut back on curriculum offerings many years ago, we continued with business as usual in the same manner we are operating today.
Celestino White
Questionnaire not returned.