“The People’s Agenda 2011,” which launched a series of town hall meetings in November 2010 in an effort to gather the concerns of citizens of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is now prepared to move forward and present The People’s Agenda to key policy makers over the next week. Recipients of the document will include V.I. Delegate to Congress Donna Christian-Christensen, Department of the Interior Officer of Insular Affairs Field Officer Basil Ottley Jr., Governor John P. deJongh and senators of the 29th Legislature.
“The agenda is an on going, growing document that began development over the past year. Through solution-oriented discussions, the people have created a document containing the concerns, issues and solutions to present to those elected as well as appointed to public service.
Though it includes a large number of action items, chief among them are these three:
1. Amendment to Title 18 Chapter 1 V.I. Code to include “Paper Ballot”
2. Petitions regarding Hovensa emissions and
3. Town meeting issues of concern from each island
Election reform is a time-sensitive issue, and all registered voters are asked to contact their legislators to express their desire for support of the amendment to Title 18 Chapter 1 of the V.I. Code.
The issues of health and environment (particularly for the inhabitants of St. Croix) took priority following a disturbing series of emissions from the Hovensa plant, and a survey was created to assist the residents to gather empirical data, documenting the health and environmental impact of these.
The people also value opportunities to address policymakers on an ongoing basis and should invite elected and appointed officials to their own organized functions or attend those being offered by these individuals.
The goals and objectives of The People’s Agenda rest in the hands of the citizens of the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the community is urged to continue to engage in this crucial dialogue.
For copies of all pertinent documents and for guidance on participation, contact Caroline Browne at 774-6683 or [email protected]