2021

2021

January 2021

Academic Publications

Disability

Brown, Karen Harris and Maria Mercedes Avila. “A Case Study of Disability Leadership.” In Education in Latin America and the Caribbean, edited by Chantal Figueroa, Carol Anne Spreen, and Licho Lopez. New York City: Springer, 2021.

• This chapter looks at advocacy for people with disabilities and “critical approaches to paternalistic/authoritarian and Eurocentric views of disability.” The authors use a leadership education training program in the U.S. Caribbean as a case study. This program promotes advocacy and social justice for disabled people in the U.S. Caribbean. Participants in the program include people from a range of backgrounds related to disability, including adults with disabilities, families of children with disabilities, healthcare providers, educators, and more.

Gender-Based Violence

Nathaniel, Karene-Anne. “What Can We Do? Social Workers in Trinidad Discuss Intimate Partner Violence Against Women.” Violence Against Women (January 2021). https://doi.org/10.1177%2F1077801220981140.

• Using two focus groups of social workers, one with men and one with women, who frequently handle IPV cases, this study sought to determine how social workers perceive intimate partner violence (IPV) against women. The study found that opinions about IPV against women were largely based on anecdotes. The main themes of the discussion had to do with the factors that they believed contributed to or perpetuated IPV against women, specifically “victim behaviors,” “societal norms and attitudes,” and “inadequate responses from allied professionals.” One finding that stands out is that both focus groups believed that IPV against women is caused primarily by women victims. The group of women social workers discussed how prior abuse and low self-esteem can contribute to women accepting abuse in adulthood. Male social workers discussed how women’s actions, from infidelity to career success, cause IPV. Nathaniel writes that the male group “seemed to present men who display intimate partner violence against women as victims of circumstance.” Nathaniel concludes that changes to social workers’ perspectives and knowledge of IPV against women—through education, policy changes, and changes to best practices—are critical to addressing the issue. Improved institutional support is also needed.

Labor

World Bank Gender Innovation Lab for Latin America and the Caribbean. The Gendered Impacts of COVID-19 on Labor Markets in Latin America and the Caribbean. January, 2021. https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/bitstream/handle/10986/35191/The-Gendered-Impacts-of-COVID-19-on-Labor-Markets-in-Latin-America-and-the-Caribbean.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y.

• This policy brief describes how the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on labor in Latin America and the Caribbean has affected men and women differently. For example, women were 44% more likely to lose their jobs at the beginning of the pandemic, factors that were linked with losing jobs were different between men and women, and the disparity between men and women’s unemployment continued even after people began finding work again. The brief recommends policy changes to address employment disparities including policies that would address women’s disproportionate family care burdens, targeted financial assistance, and collecting and making available data that show other effects of the pandemic on women, such as education and healthcare.

Natural Disasters

Francis, Kula A. And Kenny Hendrickson. “Reflections on Post-Disaster University Research in the Aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria.” In Overcoming Fieldwork Challenges in Social Science and Higher Education Research, edited by Abir El Shaban. Hershey, PA: IGI Global, 2021.

• Francis and Hendrickson previously conducted a study focused on how students at the University of the Virgin Islands perceived “authentic university academic care” in the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. This chapter is about the authors’ experiences and challenges in conducting research in the U.S. Virgin Islands in the post-disaster context.

Women’s Health

Colomé-Hidlago, M., JD Campos, and ÁG de Miguel. “Exploring wealth-related inequalities in maternal and child health coverage in Latin America and the Caribbean.” BMC Public Health 21, no. 1 (January 2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-020-10127-3.

• Because intranational disparities in healthcare can be occluded by focusing on national averages, this study looks specifically at how wealth inequality affects disparities in maternal and child healthcare in Latin America and the Caribbean. The authors found that there was indeed a disparity in maternal and child healthcare in Latin America and the Caribbean that correlated with wealth inequality. The healthcare services with the greatest access disparities were prenatal care and skilled birth attendance.

Franklin, Sarah G., Maya O’Neal, Ambreanna Arneus, Calvin Colvin, Maung Aung, and Pauline E. Jolly. “Effectiveness of an intrauterine device informative intervention among post-natal women in Western Jamaica.” Reproductive Health 18, (January 2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12978-021-01075-1.

• Although intrauterine devices (IUDs) are an effective and reversible form of contraception, they are not widely used in many developing countries. This study was conducted in Jamaica and sought to measure the effectiveness of informing women about IUDs. Participants watched a PowerPoint presentation about IUDs and took a questionnaire before and after the presentation. Investigators measured how knowledge of IUDs changed as a result of the presentation and found that the average score before the presentation was 9.54/18 and the average score after the presentation was 15.23/18. The authors thus conclude that informative interventions have the potential to increase knowledge of IUDs and that women should be provided adequate information about all contraceptive options, including IUDs, so that they can make informed choices.

Mass Media

Sanicola, Laura. “Exclusive: BP gives Caribbean refinery more time to hit operating targets – sources.” Reuters, January 6, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-refinery-bp-exclusive-idUSKBN29B2KG.

• In late 2020, BP threatened to cancel their contract with Limetree Bay after it failed to hit production targets. Now, according to unnamed sources, BP has agreed to give the refinery more time to meet production goals, and the refinery expects to open by the end of January. BP may use the extension to negotiate changes to their contracts. Limetree Bay has experienced numerous setbacks in reopening the refinery, including more than a year of delays and more than $1 billion in expenses over the projected budget.

“Limetree Bay Refinery Says Large Flare Part of Restart Work.” The St. Croix Source, January 14, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/01/14/limetree-bay-refinery-says-large-flare-part-of-restart-work/.

• For several days in mid-January there was an unusually large flame and loud noise emitted by Limetree Bay’s flare stack. Officials have apologized for causing concern and disturbances. They also explained that the flare system is used to safely burn gases, and that the atypical flaring is a normal aspect of the refinery re-starting process. When the refinery was operated by Hovensa, several flares and emissions occurred that disturbed nearby residents and caused serious health concerns. Limetree Bay still does not have a projected start-up date.

Rao, A.J. “Limetree links large flare, noise to ‘normal startup’ operations.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, January 19, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/limetree-links-large-flare-noise-to-normal-startup-operations/article_e7a8f716-74f8-5a8a-b736-f1fb7b80e4e1.html.

• Limetree Bay explained that the unusually large flame and loud noise emitted by the refinery’s flare stack is a normal aspect of the refinery re-starting process. They also explained that the flare system is used to safely burn gases, and that the atypical flaring is a normal aspect of the refinery re-starting process. There were multiple other instances of disturbances caused by the refinery in 2020. According to Reuters, BP threatened to cancel its contract due to delays but ultimately gave the refinery more time to begin operations, which is expected by the end of the month.

“Limetree Bay Gives Low-Income Seniors a Helping Hand.” The St. Croix Source, January 23, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/01/23/limetree-bay-gives-low-income-seniors-a-helping-hand/.

• This press release announces that on January 15, three Limetree Bay officials, including CEO Jeff Rinker, delivered supplies for low-income seniors to the Flambouyant Gardens senior residential community. The supplies were donated by Limetree Bay employees during a donations drive. Rinker emphasized that Limetree Bay has made an ongoing commitment to serving the community. Junia John-Straker, CEO of Lutheran Social Services of VI, expressed gratitude for the donations that would help a group of people who are particularly vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Limetree Awards More than $500K in Charitable Donations, Scholarships for 2020.” The St. Croix Source, January 25, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/01/25/limetree-awards-more-than-500k-in-charitable-donations-scholarships-for-2020/.

• This press release announces that in 2020 Limetree Bay companies contributed more than $500,000 to the community through donations to 23 local non-profit organizations and through scholarships for local students. CEO Jeffrey Rinker asserted that Limetree Bay is committed to supporting the community.

Sanicola, Laura. “Limetree Bay oil refinery begins producing transportation fuel – sources.” Reuters, January 25, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/article/refinery-restart-limetree-idUSL1N2K0175.

• According to unnamed sources Limetree Bay has begun producing transportation fuel. The refinery began producing distillate fuel oil and naphtha in September 2020, but the units that produce gasoline and diesel remained offline. This is a significant milestone after BP threatened to cancel contracts if the refinery did not meet certain production goals, however Limetree Bay still needs to begin operating at full capacity to meet the terms of its contract with BP.

“Limetree Bay Says it Provided More Than $500,000 in Donations Through Scholarships, Charitable Donations in 2020; Applications For 2021 Now Being Accepted.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, January 27, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-community_center/virgin-islands-limetree-bay-says-it-provided-more-than-500000-in-donations-through-scholarships-charitable-donations-in-2020-applications-for-2021-now-being-accepted.

• Limetree Bay companies recently announced that they contributed more than $500,000 to the community through donations to local non-profits and through scholarships for local students. In the announcement, CEO Jeffrey Rinker asserted that Limetree Bay is committed to supporting the community. The list of organizations that received donations from Limetree Bay is included.

February 2021

Academic Publications

Education

Emmanuel, Suetania and Clinton A. Valley. “A Qualitative Case Study of Exemplary Principal Leadership in the United States Virgin Islands: An Application of Kouzes and Posener’s Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership.” Journal of Research on Leadership Education (February 2021). https://doi.org/10.1177%2F1942775121990054.

• In this study, Emmanuel and Valley used Kouzes and Posner’s five practices of exemplary leadership to determine the practices of successful school principals in the U.S.V.I. The authors found that the principals included in the study modeled all of the five practices. For example, one of the five practices is “model the way,” and the principals studied reported that they comport themselves as role models for students, faculty, and staff. The authors thus conclude that these principals’ success is related to their implementation of these five practices and recommend that the U.S.V.I. education department promote these practices.

MacKenzie, Lydia. “Using Web Site Scraping To Match United States Virgin Island Employers’ Job Skill Requirements With Marketing Curriculum and Course Development at the University of the Virgin Islands.” SSRN (February 2021). https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3787083.

• As part of an effort to keep young people from moving away from the U.S. Virgin Islands, this study seeks to evaluate what skills U.S.V.I. employers are looking for in recent marketing graduates. With this information, the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) could adjust curriculum to ensure that students are graduating well-positioned to find employment in the U.S.V.I. The study found that “soft skills” such as communication skills, team work, and critical thinking skills are highly desired by U.S.V.I. employers. MacKenzie thus concludes by recommending that UVI audit its marketing curriculum to make sure that these skills are emphasized. Note: This article appears to be in the early/preprint stages. It has not been published by a journal.

Gender-Based Violence

Debowska, Agata, Daniel Boduszek, Adele D. Jones, Dominic Willmott, and Nicole Sherretts. “Gender-Based Violence Supportive Cognitions in Adolescent Girls and Boys: The Function of Violence Exposure and Victimization.” Journal of Interpersonal Violence 36, no. 3-4 (February 2021). https://doi.org/10.1177%2F0886260517741628.

• This study explored potential connections between being exposed to or being the victim of violence as a child and attitudes of gender-based violence (GBV) in Barbados and Grenada. The authors found that being exposed to violence does not appear to shape opinions about GBV. Being the victim of violence, however, is linked to opinions about GBV. For boys, being the victim of violence was strongly connected to attitudes about GBV and social norms. For girls, being the victim of violence was weakly linked to increased acceptance of social norms regarding GBV.

Women’s Health

Moise, Rhoda K., Eddy Jonas, and Elizabeth M. Campa. “Bayo Lapawol (Let Their Voices Be Heard): Haitian Women’s Barriers to and Facilitators of Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control.” Health Education & Behavior (February, 2021). https://doi.org/10.1177%2F1090198121990381.

• In order to identify Haitian women’s barriers to cervical cancer prevention healthcare, researchers trained Haitian women to use a digital camera and then encouraged them to take pictures of what they saw as barriers. Researchers then interviewed the participants to analyze the images they took and conducted focus groups. The authors found that common barriers included time, misinformation, gender norms, emotions, concerns about the quality of care, and financial concerns. Further, they presented participants’ suggestions for overcoming these barriers, including education, empowerment, changing gender norms, and health care programs that would reach women in their communities to combat transportation-related barriers.

Tuitt, Kathleen. “Social Determinants of Type 2 Diabetes and Health in Caribbean Women.” PhD diss., Walden University, 2021. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/9824/.

• In this dissertation, Neville determined how common it is among women in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to be overweight or obese, to have Type 2 diabetes, or to have pre-diabetes. She further studied what factors are predictive of contracting Type 2 diabetes. She found that 79% of women studied were overweight or obese, 11.2% had Type 2 diabetes, and 12.6% had pre-diabetes. Factors that were determined to be linked to an increased risk of contracting Type 2 diabetes include not graduating from high school, being unemployed (intentionally or unintentionally), and being overweight or obese. She concludes that health departments should address factors that are linked to an increased risk of contracting Type 2 diabetes.

Mass Media

“Limetree Bay Announces Commencement of Oil Refining, in Major Development For St. Croix and USVI.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, February 1, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-business/virgin-islands-limetree-bay-announces-commencement-of-oil-refinery-in-major-development-for-st-croix-and-usvi.

• On February 1 Limetree Bay announced that the refinery had successfully restarted and begun operations. This announcement comes after the refinery was delayed by over a year and after BP threatened to cancel its contract with the refinery. Refinery officials assert that the facility can process more than 200,000 barrels of crude per day and is prepared to process Latin American sour crudes to supply to the Caribbean, Central and South America, and the U.S. East Coast. Governor Bryan was quoted in the announcement as saying that the successful restarting of the refinery was a positive development for the U.S. Virgin Islands, particularly because of the number of jobs that the refinery provides. The article notes, however, that there will likely be layoffs at the refinery due to the large number of people needed to reopen the refinery.

“Limetree Bay Ventures Commences Refinery Startup Operations.” Business Wire, February 1, 2021. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210201005237/en/Limetree-Bay-Ventures-Commences-Refinery-Startup-Operations.

• Limetree Bay announced that the refinery had successfully restarted and begun operations. Refinery officials assert that the facility can process more than 200,000 barrels of crude per day and is prepared to process Latin American sour crudes to supply to the Caribbean, Central and South America, and the U.S. East Coast. Governor Bryan was quoted in the announcement as saying that the successful restarting of the refinery was a positive development for the U.S. Virgin Islands, particularly because of the number of jobs that the refinery provides.

“Refinery Restarts!” The St. Croix Source, February 1, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/02/01/limetree-bay-refinery-restarts/.

• Limetree Bay has restarted operations at the former Hovensa refinery. This development comes after the refinery was delayed by over a year and after BP threatened to cancel its contract with the refinery. Refinery officials assert that the facility can process more than 200,000 barrels of crude per day and is prepared to process Latin American sour crudes to supply to the Caribbean, Central and South America, and the U.S. East Coast. By comparison, the Hovensa refinery had a capacity of 500,000 barrels per day. Additionally, some of the original refinery was not restarted because the EPA would have required extensive renovations.

Rao, A.J. “Limetree refinery restarts operations.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, February 2, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/limetree-refinery-restarts-operations/article_501c62e2-60c2-5b28-add0-de82eac162cd.html.

• Eight years after the closure of the Hovensa refinery, Limetree Bay announced that the refinery had successfully restarted and begun operations. Refinery officials assert that the facility can process more than 200,000 barrels of crude per day. In a statement, Governor Bryan said that the successful restarting of the refinery was a positive development for the U.S. Virgin Islands because of the number of jobs that the refinery provides and because the V.I. government will receive an annual $7 million payment from the refinery. He further said that the refinery will continue to be monitored for issues that could affect public health. The reopening of the refinery comes after over a year of delays and threats by BP to cancel its contract.

Budryk, Zack. “Environmental group issue over federal permit for Virgin Islands refinery.” The Hill, February 3, 2021. https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/537024-environmental-groups-sue-over-federal-permit-for-virgin-islands.

• Four environmental groups, the St. Croix Environmental Association, the Center for Biological Diversity, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Sierra Club, have filed for a review of Limetree Bay’s federal permit. The refinery closed in 2012 due to multiple instances of pollution, resulting in a $5.4 million fine from the EPA, but in 2019 the Trump Administration approved the refinery’s reopening. The environmental groups assert that the EPA did not consider environmental justice, did not facilitate sufficient access to information, approved extremely high pollution limits, and excluded pollution from restarting the refinery from pollution limits.

National Resources Defense Council. Groups Challenge Reopening of Controversial Limetree Bay Oil Refinery in U.S. Virgin Islands. February 3, 2021. https://www.nrdc.org/media/2021/210203-1.

• This press release announces that the St. Croix Environmental Association, the Center for Biological Diversity, and the Sierra Club have, with the NRDC’s support, filed legal challenges to Limetree Bay refinery’s permit with the EPA. The release asserts that the refinery was “pollution-plagued” and shut down “after a series of massive oil spills and air-pollution releases” that resulted in a $5.4 million fine and increased restrictions by the EPA. The Trump administration—which has connections to the refinery’s principal investor ArcLight Capital—oversaw the facility’s quick procurement of the federal permit, and challengers want the new Biden administration to review the permit.

Gilbert, Ernice. “On Heels of Refining Restart at Limetree Bay, Four Environmental Groups File Lawsuit to Shut it Down.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, February 4, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-business/virgin-islands-on-heels-of-refining-restart-at-limetree-bay-four-environmental-groups-launch-lawsuit-to-shut-it-down-.

• According to a report fromThe Hill, shortly after Limetree Bay announced that the refinery had restarted, the St. Croix Environmental Association, the Center for Biological Diversity, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Sierra Club have filed legal challenges to the refinery’s EPA permit. The groups hope that the new Biden administration will revoke the permit granted under the Trump administration, as Biden and his EPA director Michael Regan have demonstrated a commitment to reversing Trump-era environmental policy and addressing climate change. The groups assert that the EPA did not consider environmental justice, approved extremely high pollution limits, and excluded pollution from restarting the refinery from pollution limits, and hope that the Biden administration will revoke the refinery’s permit.

Kossler, Bill. “Environmental Groups and Limetree Refinery Both Challenging Terms of Refinery Permit.” The St. Croix Source, February 4, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/02/04/environmental-groups-and-limetree-refinery-both-challenging-terms-of-refinery-permit/.

• The St. Croix Environmental Association (SEA), the Center for Biological Diversity, and the Sierra Club, working with the Natural Resources Defense Council, Vermont Law School’s Environmental Justice Clinic, and The Neville Law Firm LLC have filed challenges to Limetree Bay’s EPA pollution limit permit. Limetree Bay officials have said that the legal challenge will not affect operations at the recently restarted refinery. The Hovensa refinery closed in 2012 after ongoing financial troubles, a $5.3 million fine by the EPA, and an EPA directive to make changes that would have cost $700 million to reduce pollution. The SEA has stated that restarting the refinery as a way to improve the St. Croix economy is misguided, that pollution from the refinery has already irreparably damaged the south shore of the island, and that the refinery poses significant public health and environmental risks. The environmental and legal groups involved assert that the pollution limits are too high and that the Trump administration eliminated a rule that would have classified the Limetree Bay refinery as a new facility and thus subject to more stringent pollution limits. Regarding the legal challenges, refinery officials have said that the permit will allow the refinery to expand which could promote more investment in the area and create more jobs. The refinery is also opposing the same permit, claiming that the EPA does not have the authority to require the facility to conduct air monitoring and that there is no evidence that the facility could seriously affect air quality.

Rao, A.J. “Environmental groups file legal action to stop ‘pollution-plagued’ Limetree refinery.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, February 4, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/environmental-groups-file-legal-action-to-stop-pollution-plagued-limetree-refinery/article_7ff58d27-9b1f-5d70-b271-057df4d280ae.html.

• The St. Croix Environmental Association, the Center for Biological Diversity, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Sierra Club filed a call for review of Limetree Bay’s federal permit. The groups assert that the EPA set too high of a pollution limit in a vulnerable community where the majority of residents are people of color and a significant number of residents are below the poverty line. Further, they argue that the refinery is likely to cause serious environmental harm based on the damage that the Hovensa refinery caused, and that the Trump administration—which has ties to ArcLight Capital Partners, a primary investor in Limetree Bay—expedited approvals. The environmental groups hope that the Biden-Harris administration will take appropriate action.

Wright, Walter G. “Refinery Reactivation: Petition Before the U.S. EPA Environmental Appeals Board Challenging Plantwide Applicability Limit Air Permit.” Between the Lines (blog), February 16, 2021. https://www.mitchellwilliamslaw.com/refinery-reactivation-petition-before-the-us-epa-environmental-appeals-board-challenging-plantwide-applicability-limit-air-permit.

• In this post on theBetween the Lines blog run by the Mitchell Williams Law Firm, Wright writes that the Center for Biological Diversity, the St. Croix Environmental Association, the Sierra Club, and Elizabeth Neville filed a Petition for Review with the EPA challenging Limetree Bay’s Plantwide Applicability Limit permit. The petition argues that the refinery should have been classified as a new, rather than an idled facility, which would require the facility to adhere to the Clean Air Act Prevention and Significant Deterioration program, and that the classification of the facility as idled went against longstanding EPA policy.

March 2021

Academic Publications

Economy

Bergallo, Paola, Marcelo Mangini, Mariela Magnelli, and Sabina Bercovich. The impacts of COVID-19 on women’s economic autonomy in Latin America and the Caribbean. United Nations Development Programme, 2020. https://www.latinamerica.undp.org/content/rblac/en/home/library/womens_empowerment/los-impactos-del-covid-19-en-la-autonomia-economica-de-las-mujer.html.

• This paper uses the COVID-19 Global Gender Response (GGR) Tracker to evaluate the measures Latin American and Caribbean governments have implemented to address the effects of the pandemic on women’s economic independence. About half of the measures taken to address the social and economic effects of the pandemic were gender specific, but only a small part of gender-specific measures addressed economic security. The paper evaluates these measures to promote women’s economic independence for their efficacy and makes recommendations for future interventions.

DeGazon, Allison and Tim Faley. “Economic resiliency to macro-economic shocks of two SIDS: United States Virgin Islands and Aruba, having similar economies and dissimilar economic policies.” SSRN (March 2021). https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3801974.

• Small-island developing states (SIDS) can be especially vulnerable to macroeconomic shocks. Some believe that this is in part due to the significance of external factors, which a SIDS government cannot control, in an island’s economy. DeGazon and Faley compare the effects of different macroeconomic shocks, the 2008 recession and the closure of a refinery, on two SIDS, the USVI and Aruba. They found that the two economies fared very differently in the face of similar macroeconomic shocks, suggesting that governments can actually have a significant effect on SIDS economies. Note: This article appears to be in the early/preprint stages. It has not been published by a journal.

Willie, Ericka Dolores. “Hospitality Industry Employee Turnover.” D.B.A. diss., Walden University, 2021. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/9843/.

• This dissertation examined employee turnover in the hospitality industry in St. Croix. Willie focused on three variables, “employee perceptions of work experience, supervisory practices, [and] employee compensation,” to determine how they are related to turnover rates. She found that these variables all have an effect on employee turnover and recommended that businesses in the hospitality industry address these variables in order to reduce turnover rates.

Empire

Christensen, Rasmus. “‘Against the Law of God, of nature and the secular world’: conceptions of sovereignty in early colonial St. Thomas, 1672-1680.” Scandinavian Journal of History (March 2021). https://doi.org/10.1080/03468755.2021.1896575.

• In this article, Christiansen looks at concepts of sovereignty and the developing colonial government of St. Thomas between 1672 and 1680. Specifically, he focuses on how the first colonial governor, Jørgen Iverson, modeled the colony’s legal system after the Danish legal system as a way to legitimize Danish rule and extend the Danish monarchy’s sovereignty to St. Thomas. He further asserts that the Danish colonization of St. Thomas was primarily political, and thus pushes back against studies that focus on the economic, disorganized, or chaotic elements of Danish colonization.

Natural Disasters

Bleeker, Amelia, Pablo Escribano, and Candice Gonzales. Advancing gender equality in environmental migration and disaster displacement in the Caribbean. United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, 2021. https://repositorio.cepal.org/handle/11362/46737.

• Displacement and migration caused by disasters and climate change is an increasingly pressing issue. People experience disasters and displacement differently based on gender, and it is important to understand women and girls’ experiences and to implement measures to protect their safety and rights. This study, therefore, is intended to provide information on how women and girls are affected by natural disasters, climate change, and migration. The paper focuses on case studies done in the Bahamas, Dominica, Jamaica, and Cuba and provides recommendations for SIDS to address the effects of disaster and migration on women and girls.

Coulbourne, William, Cherylyn Henry, and Thomas L. Smith. Hurricanes Irma and Maria in the US Virgin Islands. Reston, VA: American Society of Civil Engineers, 2021. https://ascelibrary.org/doi/abs/10.1061/9780784415689.

• This book looks at how extreme wind conditions of Hurricanes Irma and Maria affected engineered buildings in the USVI. The purpose of the book is to assist “structural engineers and building officials engaged in the wind design and review of buildings.”

Waddell, Samantha L., Dushyantha T. Jayaweera, Mehdi Mirsaeidi, John C. Beier, and Naresh Kumar. “Perspectives on the Health Effects of Hurricanes: A Review and Challenges.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 5 (March 2021). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18052756.

• This review paper examines and summarizes previous work on the health effects of hurricanes to determine how hurricanes can affect health and when the health effects are the greatest. The authors determined that hurricanes can “cause and exacerbate multiple diseases.” They further found that the effects of hurricanes on health peak six months after the hurricane, but chronic diseases can be ongoing. While the USVI is not the focus of this paper, information on the effects of Hurricanes Irma and Maria on the USVI is included in the analysis.

Women’s Health

McFarlane, Soroya Julian, Susan E. Morgan, and Matthew Schlumbrecht. “Acceptability of a multicomponent, community-based, HPV self-test intervention among Jamaican women.” Cancer Causes & Control (March 2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10552-021-01406-4.

• Rates of HPV screening are low among Jamaican women for reasons including fear of pain from testing, distrust of medical systems, lack of awareness of HPV and testing, and modesty concerns. These authors suggest that a community-based program that prioritizes education and facilitates self-testing could increase screening rates. To test this theory, they hired community outreach workers who recruited 163 women from low-income areas who did not have up-to-date Pap tests. The community workers distributed self-tests and information about the tests, HPV, and cervical cancer. They found that 95.6% of the women who were given a test used and returned it and reported that they preferred the self-test over visiting a doctor. The authors thus conclude that community-based self-testing programs are effective and culturally acceptable.

Murray, David A.B. “Redemption songs: women, religion, and the moral politics of HIV in Barbados.” Culture and Religion (March 2021). https://doi.org/10.1080/14755610.2021.1903956.

• In this article, Murray examines the complex connection between HIV+ Barbadian women and religion. He shows how Christianity and church membership is an important element in HIV+ Barbadian women’s lives because it has helped them with their sense of self-worth, because church attendance is part of a politics of respectability, and because church communities can be a support network. This relationship is complex though, as Christian churches have often been the drivers of the stigma against HIV. As such, women are reluctant to share their HIV status with church leaders and members. Murray writes that the church “occupies conflicting roles.” The church, by policing behavior and stigmatizing HIV, can be the source of shame. Yet through promoting paths to forgiveness and salvation, the church can also be the reliever of shame.

Mass Media

“Limetree Bay Releases Timeline of Flare Incident.” The St. Croix Source, March 4, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/03/04/limetree-bay-responds-to-flare-incident/.

• This press release explains that an incident in February that caused steam and oil to be emitted from the refinery was caused by “an upset in the refinery at Flare Unit No. 8.” Limetree Bay initially determined that the release only affected the Limetree Bay complex, but later learned that nearby areas, specifically the Clifton Hill community, were also affected. After learning this, the company sent environmental teams to investigate. The press release continues to explain the precautions the company is taking including cleaning cars and roofs, disconnecting cisterns, and sending cistern water for third-party testing. Cisterns that are not contaminated will be topped up with water, and cisterns that are found to be contaminated will be emptied, cleaned, and refilled.

“Limetree Bay Says Incident in February Caused Release of Droplets of Oil on Roofs, Vehicles and Properties in Clifton Hill.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, March 4, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-accidents/virgin-islands-limetree-bay-says-incident-in-february-caused-release-of-droplets-of-oil-on-homes-vehicles-and-properties-in-clifton-hill.

• This article reports on the March 4 press release regarding a refinery upset that spread oil droplets into the Clifton Hill community. Limetree Bay initially determined that the release only affected the Limetree Bay complex, but later learned that nearby areas, specifically the Clifton Hill community. After learning this, the company sent environmental teams to investigate. Precautions the company is taking include cleaning cars and roofs, disconnecting cisterns, and sending cistern water for third-party testing. Cisterns that are not contaminated will be topped up with water, and cisterns that are found to be contaminated will be emptied, cleaned, and refilled.

“Limetree says it’s cleaning and testing oil droplets sprayed over St. Croix neighborhood.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, March 4, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/limetree-says-its-cleaning-and-testing-oil-droplets-sprayed-over-st-croix-neighborhood/article_3cc1282e-aa53-578f-99fb-4535e9ebbc21.html.

• This article reports on the March 4 press release regarding a refinery upset that spread oil droplets into the Clifton Hill community, and emphasizes the company’s efforts to test cistern water for contaminants. Limetree Bay initially determined that the release only affected the Limetree Bay complex, but later learned that nearby areas, specifically the Clifton Hill community, were also affected. After learning this, the company sent environmental teams to investigate. Precautions the company is taking include cleaning cars and roofs and sending cistern water for third-party testing. Cisterns that are not contaminated will be topped up with water, and cisterns that are found to be contaminated will be emptied, cleaned, and refilled.

Sanicola, Laura. “Far from White House, Caribbean refinery to test Biden’s promises on poverty and pollution.” Reuters, March 7, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-caribbean-refinery-environment-in-idUSKBN2B00DA.

• The Biden administration has asserted that it will focus on making sure new energy projects do not disproportionately affect low-income communities or people of color. The Limetree Bay refinery restart will be a test of that assertion. The refinery has a long history of negatively affecting the nearby communities. The facility recently spread oil droplets onto nearby areas and has been emitting odors and gasses that have disturbed nearby communities. The company has also resisted EPA directives to monitor emissions and air quality, and, as of the time of this article’s publication, was not monitoring for sulfur dioxide levels as required by the EPA. The EPA under the Biden administration is reviewing Limetree Bay’s EPA permit and could revoke it.

Carlson, Suzanne. “EPA investigating Limetree Bay refinery’s contamination of cisterns on St. Croix.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, March 15, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/epa-investigating-limetree-bay-refinerys-contamination-of-cisterns-on-st-croix/article_53ac355d-bd2e-59df-8c1c-da1fe697ba23.html.

• The EPA is investigating a February 4 incident at Limetree Bay that left the Clifton Hill area covered in oil droplets and contaminated at least 63 cisterns. Residents of that area had been complaining about pollution from the refinery for over a month. Limetree Bay did not publicly address the incident until March 3 and provided few details. Further, despite claims that it notified the appropriate governmental agencies, EPA spokesman Elias Rodriguez said that the refinery did not notify federal agencies. Rodriguez also gaveThe Virgin Islands Daily News a copy of a letter from senior vice president of operations Robert Weldzius to Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) division of environmental protection director Austin Callwood explaining what caused the steam and oil release. In the letter, Weldzius explains that too much water was introduced into a coke drum. The water evaporated quickly and safety valves opened due to the high pressure. “A mixture of oil and water vapor was sent to the containment system, exceeding its capacity and ultimately exiting through the No. 8 flare.” Weldzius further wrote that “emissions were believed to have been contained within the refinery,” but when nearby residents complained of oil droplets on their property the refinery contacted the DPNR, sent a team to investigate the reports, and worked to clean up the oil.

“Limetree Bay 2021 Scholarship Applications Available Online for High School Seniors.” The St. Croix Source, March 16, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/03/16/limetree-bay-2021-scholarship-applications-available-online-for-high-school-seniors/.

• This press release announced that applications were open for scholarships from Limetree Bay. However, as of 5/6/21 the release had been removed from the Croix Source website.

“Coast Guard, Government Agencies Conduct Oil Spill Response Exercise at Limetree Bay Refinery.” The St. Croix Source, March 17, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/03/17/coast-guard-government-agencies-conduct-oil-spill-response-exercise-at-limetree-bay-refinery/.

• This press release explains that various government agencies conducted an oil spill response training exercise at Limetree Bay as part of the National Preparedness for Response Exercise Program. Jeff Charles, vice president of terminal operations, said that the exercise was an example of the company’s commitment to the environment, Limetree Bay employees, and the people of St. Croix. The exercise is intended to evaluate responders’ ability to effectively use the National Incident Management System Incident Command System and to review Limetree Bay’s pollution response plan.

Borns, Patricia. “Still losing money, Port Authority agrees to exclusive barge bunkering deal.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, March 18, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/still-losing-money-port-authority-agrees-to-exclusive-barge-bunkering-deal/article_0b624079-7207-5892-8716-e13aa6d501fe.html.

• The USVI Port Authority has been losing money due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In an effort to improve their financial situation, the Port Authority approved an agreement that will allow the Virgin Islands Oil and Transportation Company to bunker oil in the St. Thomas Harbor. The oil will be purchased from Limetree Bay and transported to St. Thomas for use in cruise and cargo ships.

“It’s not a spill, it’s a drill.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, March 18, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/its-not-a-spill-its-a-drill/article_0a784393-f77e-55fd-89cf-f537aff4db0f.html.

• A federally required mock oil spill exercise was conducted at Limetree Bay on March 16 and 17. The Coast Guard, along with federal and USVI emergency responders, participated in the exercise. According to a statement from the Coast Guard, the drill was intended to evaluate responders’ ability to quickly and effectively coordinate an assessment and response. The drill was also intended to review Limetree Bay’s pollution response protocol.

Tigue, Kristoffer. “Donald Trump’s Parting Gift to the People of St. Croix: The Reopening of One of America’s Largest Oil Refineries.” Inside Climate News, March 21, 2021. https://insideclimatenews.org/news/21032021/trump-st-croix-virgin-island-oil-refinery/.

• The recently re-started refinery on St. Croix has a long, serious history of pollution. A recent example is the February flare up that spread oil throughout a nearby community, which was followed by company contractors spraying chemical dispersants throughout the community. As a result, cars, roofs, cisterns, land, and crops were contaminated, possibly irreparably. Environmentalists are calling for the Biden administration, which has prioritized environmental justice and addressing climate change, to revoke Limetree Bay’s air pollution permit. They argue that the Trump administration ignored the New Source Review rule requiring new facilities to abide by stricter requirements and to use newer and better pollution-preventing equipment. Further, citing the Paris Climate Accord, they question the utility of allowing the refinery to re-start considering the need to significantly reduce fossil fuel usage. Evidence also shows that the Trump administration rushed the permit process to financially aid the company. One high-level EPA official even wrote in an email that he would give the company“anything they need.” The Biden White House has not commented on the controversy over the permit, however EPA officials installed under the Biden administration have previously indicated that they disapproved of the permit’s approval. The article continues to describe several incidents of pollution caused by the refinery, including a 2011 fuel line explosion, long-term air pollution, and the 43 million gallon oil spill into St. Croix’s groundwater that was discovered in 1982. Although ordered by the EPA to spend $700 million on improvements to prevent pollution and $4.9 million improving the St. Croix environment, the company, then Hovensa, evaded these orders by closing and selling the refinery and filing bankruptcy. This article was reprinted in the  Thomas Source on March 23, 2021.

Eilperin, Juliet, Darryl Fears, and Salwan Georges. “The island where it rained oil: In the Virgin Islands, a refinery tests Biden’s environmental justice commitment.” The Washington Post, March 24, 2021. https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/interactive/2021/biden-environmental-justice-refinery-st-croix/.

• Three days after Limetree Bay re-opened the refinery on St. Croix, an accident triggered a pressure release valve to open which spewed steam and oil into the air, spreading oil droplets as far as three miles away. The Biden administration is investigating the incident, and the EPA has revoked the refinery’s plantwide applicability limit (PAL) permit. The refinery will be an early test of Biden’s prioritization of environmental justice and climate change. Many UUSVI officials support the refinery for economic purposes, especially after the toll the COVID-19 pandemic has taken on the tourism industry. Limetree Bay has asserted that the contaminants released from the facility are safe, and that the company has ensured that the facility itself is safe and modern. The original facility, Hovensa, caused severe pollution, including the underground release of at least 300,000 barrels of petrochemicals. The EPA ordered Hovensa to pay a $5.3 million fine, spend $700 million on refinery upgrades to prevent pollution, and address the effects on the island and residents. The company declared bankruptcy, closed the refinery, and did not adhere to the EPA orders. ArcLight Capital bought the refinery in 2015 and reopened the refinery as Limetree Bay. The EPA under the Trump administration fast-tracked Limetree Bay’s permits and classified the refinery as an existing facility, rather than a new facility, which allowed the company to avoid stricter requirements to prevent pollution. Also unusual, typically someone in the island’s regional office would sign the plantwide applicability limit permit, but EPA head Andrew Wheeler signed it himself shortly before Trump left office.

Gilbert, Ernice. “EPA Withdraws Plantwide Permit Given to Limetree Bay Under Trump Administration; Agency to Review Clean Air Act Requirements for Facility.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, March 25, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-business/virgin-islands-epa-withdraws-plantwide-permit-given-to-limetree-bay-under-trump-administration-agency-to-review-clean-air-act-requirements-for-facility.

• The EPA announced on March 25 that it had withdrawn Limetree Bay’s PAL. Reasons for this decision included concerns from several different groups, the potential for environmental injustices, and Biden’s executive order that federal agencies review Trump-era environmental policies and actions. Further, according to the EPA the permit never went into effect because appeals had been filed within a certain timeframe after its approval. The EPA will now review the permit to determine what requirements are necessary to ensure the health of St. Croix residents. The article notes that this decision came after increased attention on the refinery and its PAL, in part due to the March 24 article in theWashington Post. Limetree Bay issued a statement expressing disappointment, but asserting that the permit withdrawal will not affect current operations, only the process of future changes or developments to the facility. Governor Bryan also noted that current operations will not be affected, but stated that he and Limetree Bay welcome the permit’s further review because it will protect the health of St. Croix residents.

Kossler, Bill. “EPA Withdraws One Limetree Refinery Permit Pending Appeals.” The St. Croix Source, March 25, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/03/25/epa-withdraws-one-limetree-refinery-permit-pending-appeals/.

• The EPA withdrew Limetree Bay’s PAL and is reviewing the permit to determine what requirements are necessary to ensure the health of St. Croix residents. The refinery will be able to continue operating, but it will have less flexibility in how the refinery operates. Both environmental groups and Limetree Bay have contested this permit, with environmental groups arguing that it would permit unreasonable levels of pollution, while the company argues that the permit is too strict. Because of these appeals, which were filed in a certain period of time after the permit’s approval, the permit never went into effect. Limetree Bay spokesperson Erika Parsons expressed disappointment in the permit withdrawal but maintained that current operations will not be affected.

Tigue, Kristoffer. “The Biden EPA Withdraws a Key Permit for an Oil Refinery on St. Croix, Citing ‘Environmental Justice’ Concerns.” Inside Climate News, March 25, 2021. https://insideclimatenews.org/news/25032021/biden-epa-limetree-oil-refinery-virgin-islands-permit/.

• Citing the potential for environmental injustices, the EPA withdrew an important air pollution permit for Limetree Bay. The EPA will now review the permit to determine what requirements are necessary to ensure the health of St. Croix residents, which could result in stricter requirements to prevent pollution. The original Hovensa refinery had several instances of egregious pollution and people who live nearby frequently have said that the refinery has affected their air and water quality and has contributed to increased rates of cancer, asthma, and other medical conditions.

United States Environmental Protection Agency. EPA Withdraws Plantwide Applicability Limit Permit for Limetree Bay Refinery in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Will Review Clean Air Act Requirements for the Facility. March 25, 2021. https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-withdraws-plantwide-applicability-limit-permit-limetree-bay-refinery-us-virgin.

• This EPA news release announces that the EPA withdrew Limetree Bay’s plantwide applicability limit (PAL) permit due to concerns and appeals from non-governmental organizations, St. Croix residents, and Limetree Bay. Also taken into consideration were the potential for environmental injustices and Biden’s executive order that federal agencies review actions and policies made by the Trump administration that have to do with the environment. The EPA will now review the permit to determine what requirements are necessary under the Clean Air Act and to ensure the health of St. Croix residents. The release also notes that the permit never went into effect because appeals had been filed within a certain timeframe after its approval. The withdrawal restricts the refinery’s flexibility in making changes to operations and the facility, but it does not affect the refinery’s ability to operate.

Volcovici, Valerie. “Biden White House blocks Virgin Island refinery expansion permit over pollution concerns.” Reuters, March 25, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/us-epa-blocks-virgin-islands-refinery-expansion-pending-environmental-justice-2021-03-25/.

• The EPA withdrew a permit that gave Limetree Bay significant flexibility in expanding the facility with little review because of concerns over existing pollution levels. This is a significant move for the EPA and for Biden’s administration which made environmental justice a priority. The EPA will now review the permit to determine what requirements are necessary to ensure the health of St. Croix residents. Since the recent restart of the refinery, residents near the refinery have reported foul odors, oil droplets on their property, and physical ailments including headaches and difficulty breathing. The company spokesman expressed disappointment in the decision, but the decision has encouraged environmental groups.

Carlson, Suzanne. “EPA still investigating flare at Limetree Bay Refinery last month.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, March 26, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/epa-still-investigating-flare-at-limetree-bay-refinery-last-month/article_6248c466-bb14-5501-b554-8d685c2c8428.html.

• The EPA is still investigating the incident at Limetree Bay that spread oil droplets throughout a nearby community. This incident came after numerous previous incidents that affected the communities surrounding the refinery. Limetree Bay initially refused to acknowledge the incident, and in its first statement about the incident a month later, only provided vague information. In that statement the company claimed to have notified appropriate agencies, however an EPA spokesman confirmed that the company did not notify any federal agencies. The article continues to describe correspondence between Limetree Bay and the DPNR, the company’s efforts to clean up the oil droplets, and the withdrawal of Limetree Bay’s PAL.

Carlson, Suzanne. “EPA withdraws Limetree Bay emission permit for further review.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, March 26, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/epa-withdraws-limetree-bay-emission-permit-for-further-review/article_0523026f-247c-5ef4-b87b-fc9587cff07f.html.

• The EPA withdrew Limetree Bay’s PAL and is reviewing the permit to determine what requirements are necessary to ensure the health of USVI residents. Limetree Bay spokeswoman Erika Parsons expressed disappointment in the permit withdrawal but maintained that current operations will not be affected. This withdrawal comes after four environmental groups filed legal challenges to the PAL citing concerns about lax restrictions and asserting that the PAL was fast-tracked by the EPA because the refinery’s principal investor has ties to Donald Trump. Because these appeals, and appeals from Limetree Bay, were filed within a specific time frame, the PAL never went into effect. The article continues to explain the pollution issues at the former refinery, Hovensa, and its ultimate closure.

Skeoch, Gwendolyn. “Letter: Refinery Needs Effective Regulation.” The St. Croix Source, March 29, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/03/29/letter-refinery-needs-effective-regulation/.

• In this open letter Gwendolyn Skeoch, who was born on St. Croix and continues to be a full-time resident, argues that the government needs to impose stricter and more effective regulations on Limetree Bay. She recalls the pollution that the Hovensa refinery caused and lambasts the refinery for not adhering to the latest safety and pollution requirements by asserting that it is an existing facility and therefore not required to adhere to requirements for new facilities. She argues that the refinery should not be allowed to continue operations after the EPA withdrew one of Limetree Bay’s permits. Further, she expresses deep concern that under the terms of a PAL the company could be allowed to make changes to operations and the facility with little oversight.

April 2021

Academic Publications

Gender

La Fountain-Stokes, Lawrence Martin. Translocas: The Politics of Puerto Rican Drag and Trans Performance. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, 2021.

• In this book, La Fountain-Stokes studies people who have crossed gender norms in Puerto Rico, specifically “effeminate men, drag queens, transgender performers, and unruly women.” He documents their lives, work, experiences, perspectives, experiences as victims of violence, and unique use of drag or trans performance. He argues that drag and transgender performance and activism has the potential to create social and political change by disrupting popular conceptions of gender and sexuality and by serving as a means to critique other issues including race and class.

Health

Prakalapakorn, S. Grace, Lucas Bonafede, Linda Lawrence, Daniel Lattin, Nicola Kim, Richard D. House, Braeanna Hillman, et al. “Ocular Findings and Visual Function in Children Examined during the Zika Health Brigade in the US Virgin Islands, March 2018.” Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease 6, no. 2 (April 2021). https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed6020066.

• During the March 2018 Zika Health Brigade (ZHB) by the US Department of Health, 88 childrenwho tested positive for Zika virus at birth were examined by ophthalmologists. This study is based on the data collected during the ZHB. The authors found that of the 88 children, relatively few had microcephaly (6.2%) or structural eye abnormalities (2.5%). 26.4% of the children, however, had visual impairments. The authors thus recommend that all children who may have had an antenatal Zika infection be screened for visual impairments, regardless of other effects of antenatal Zika infection.

Natural Disasters

Edmeade, Jendayi N. And Christine N. Buzinde. “The role of educators in community resilience in natural disaster-prone communities.” Community Development Journal (April 2021). https://doi.org/10.1093/cdj/bsab010.

• This study explores how teachers in small-island developing states (SIDS), specifically the USVI, perceive community resilience in the aftermath of natural disasters. In doing so, they seek to shed light on how teachers contribute to community resilience. The authors found that teachers spoke about having two roles in community resilience, the first role being providing the community with resources, and the second being assisting students experiencing psychological distress.

Mass Media

Sanicola, Laura. “Top execs leave troubled refinery in U.S. Virgin Islands: letter.” Reuters, April 7, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-refinery-limetree-shakeup-idUSKBN2BU3JS.

• Three Limetree Bay executives announced that they would leave the company: Chief financial officer Forgan McIntosh, senior vice president of refining Bob Weldzius, and vice president of human resources Jodi Mitchell. Neil Morgan, previously of Census Energy Inc., will replace Weldzius. These departures come after more problems at the refinery. Most recently, in the week prior to this article’s publication the refinery shut down processing due to an undisclosed issue with operations.

Sanicola, Laura. “U.S. Justice Department seeks to modify oversight for Caribbean refinery.” Reuters, April 8, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-refinery-st-croix-idUSKBN2BV38X.

• In cooperation with the EPA, the Justice Department is asking a court to approve transferring the consent decree for the Hovensa refinery, which violated the Clean Air Act, to the refinery’s new operators, Limetree Bay. According to the EPA this would require benzene emissions monitoring and adjust permissible emissions levels based on production volume. The company, the U.S. federal government, and the USVI territorial government agreed on the consent decree modifications in August 2020. John Walke, senior attorney and director of clean air programs at the NRDC argued that Limetree Bay should have been bound by the consent decree before it began operations. This development is not related to the EPA’s withdrawal of the refinery’s plantwide applicability limit permit in March. As of this article’s publication, the refinery was not operating due to an undisclosed issue.

Borns, Patricia. “EPA, Limetree seek modifications to HOVENSA consent decree.” The Virign Islands Daily News, April 9, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/epa-limetree-seek-modifications-to-hovensa-consent-decree/article_c2e14005-69b0-560c-ada3-f0585bcc4294.html.

• On behalf of the EPA, the Justice Department filed to modify the 2011 consent decree with Hovensa and transfer the consent decree to the new refinery operator, Limetree Bay. The requirements in the 2011 consent decree were imposed because of Hovensa’s violation of the Clean Air Act. Some of the modifications include raising the requirements related to the Clean Air Act up to current standards, raising the standards related to benzene pollution, and adjusting emissions permissions based on productions levels. Some obligations under the 2011 consent decree will not be transferred to Limetree Bay. It is not yet clear which obligations will not be transferred to Limetree Bay, but some of them will be transferred to an environmental response trust that was created when Hovensa declared bankruptcy. The article continues to explain the EPA’s sanctioning of Hovensa and its subsequent closure and declaration of bankruptcy as well as recent issues at Limetree Bay.

“EPA Seeks Modification to 2011 Settlement With Hovensa in Bid to Transfer Certain Obligations of Settlement to Limetree Bay.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, April 9, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-business/virgin-islands-epa-seeks-modification-to-2011-settlement-with-hovensa-in-bid-to-transfer-certain-obligations-of-settlement-to-limetree-bay.

• On behalf of the EPA, the Justice Department filed to modify the 2011 consent decree with Hovensa, which was intended to address Hovensa’s Clean Air Act violations. The modifications would transfer some of the requirements of the consent decree to Limetree Bay, update Clean Air Act requirements, update requirements to prevent benzene pollution, and adjust permissible emissions levels based on production levels. Other responsibilities from the 2011 consent decree will be transferred to an environmental response trust that was created when Hovensa declared bankruptcy.

Gilbert, Ernice. “Mishap at Limetree Bay Leads to Halt of Oil Refining; Three Top Executives Leave Company – Report.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, April 9, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-business/virgin-islands-mishap-at-limetree-bay-leads-to-halt-of-refining-three-top-executives-leave-company-report-.

• Citing the April 7 article inReuters, this article explains that Limetree Bay is facing more setbacks as three executives announced that they would leave the company: Chief financial officer Forgan McIntosh, senior vice president of refining Bob Weldzius, and vice president of human resources Jodi Mitchell. Neil Morgan, previously of Census Energy Inc., will replace Weldzius. Additionally, the refinery has stopped operations due to an undisclosed issue.

National Resources Defense Council. Biden Administration Opens Investigation Into Troubled St. Croix Oil Refinery. April 9, 2021. https://www.nrdc.org/media/2021/210409.

• In this press release, the NRDC notes some of the recent events regarding Limetree Bay including the Justice Department’s filing to transfer Hovensa’s 2011 consent decree to Limetree Bay, the EPA’s launch of an investigation into a recent flaring incident, and the departure of three Limetree Bay executives. The press release further explains that St. Croix residents are questioning why the refinery was permitted to open without adhering to the consent decree that was originally intended to address Hovensa’s violations of the Clean Air Act.

Kossler, Bill. “Potential Changes to Settlement Mostly Help the Refinery.” The St. Croix Source, April 11, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/04/11/potential-changes-to-settlement-mostly-help-the-refinery/.

• On behalf of the EPA, the Justice Department filed to modify the 2011 consent decree with Hovensa, which was intended to address Hovensa’s Clean Air Act violations. The modifications include transferring responsibility for some of the requirements in the consent decree to Limetree Bay. The new operator will not be responsible for all of the requirements in the original consent decree, in part because the parts of the refinery that caused the worst pollution were not reopened and because Limetree Bay operations are different than Hovensa operations. Additional modifications include extended time limits to install equipment, updates to Clean Air Act requirements, and updated requirements to prevent benzene pollution. These modifications would also mean that Hovensa would no longer be responsible for the obligations in the consent decree.

Lynch, Sarah and Jan Wolfe. “Exxon Mobil has agreed to reduce air pollution at refinery near Chicago – U.S. Justice Department.” Reuters, April 13, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/exxon-mobil-has-agreed-reduce-air-pollution-refinery-near-chicago-us-justice-2021-04-13/.

• ExxonMobil, US officials, and Illinois officials settled on an agreement for a consent decree that will require ExxonMobil to reduce air pollution at its Joliet, Illinois refinery. The changes to the refinery will cost approximately $10 million, and the company will also pay more than $1.5 million in fines. This news comes less than a month after the EPA withdrew one of Limetree Bay’s permits and is an indication that the Biden administration will be tightening restrictions on pollution.

Tigue, Kristoffer. “The EPA Is Asking a Virgin Islands Refinery for Information on its Spattering of Neighbors With Oil.” Inside Climate News, April 14, 2021. https://insideclimatenews.org/news/14042021/epa-limetree-refinery-virgin-islands-oil/.

• The EPA sent Limetree Bay a letter asking for information related to the February flare incident that spread oil droplets into the nearby community. The letter also asked for more general information about the refinery including the operating status, compliance certifications, and information about other potential pollution incidents since the refinery restarted. The scope of the information requests has led some to think that the EPA could be conducting a larger investigation of the refinery. The article continues to provide information about recent issues regarding Limetree Bay.

“Limetree Bay Names Neil Morgan to Be Refinery General Manager.” The St. Croix Source, April 20, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/04/20/limetree-bay-names-neil-morgan-to-be-refinery-general-manager/.

• This press release announces that Neil Morgan, formerly of Husky Energy, has replaced Robert Weldzius as the refinery general manager. It notes that Weldzius’s position with the company was to support the reopening process and that he expressed his intention to retire in 2020.

Sanicola, Laura. “St. Croix refinery resumes operating after full outage – sources.” Reuters, April 21, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/article/refinery-operations-limetree-bay-st-croi-idUSL1N2ME2OZ.

• After the entire refinery was shut down for an undisclosed issue, the refinery has resumed operations. The article also notes that Neil Morgan, formerly of Census energy, replaced Bob Weldzius as the refinery general manager.

“DPNR Investigating Foul Odor in Frederiksted.” The St. Croix Source, April 23, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/04/23/dpnr-investigating-foul-odor-in-frederiksted/.

• This press release from Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) Commissioner Jean-Pierre L. Oriol says that the DPNR is aware of a sustained offensive odor in Frederiksted and that the department discovered that Limetree Bay is emitting a high amount of hydrogen sulfide. The release further advises that people with respiratory issues take appropriate protective measures.

“DPNR Investigating Foul Odor in Frederiksted Emanating From Limetree Bay; Limetree Says It Has Corrected Problem.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, April 23, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-community_center/virgin-islands-dpnr-investigating-foul-odor-in-frederiksted-emanating-from-limetree-bay-limetree-says-it-has-corrected-the-problem.

• The DPNR announced that it was aware of a sustained offensive odor in Frederiksted, that the department discovered that Limetree Bay was emitting a high amount of hydrogen sulfide, and that people with respiratory issues should take protective measures. Limetree Bay released a statement saying that the odor was due to “an operating upset” and that the issue has been corrected.

“Limetree Bay Refinery Responds to Site’s Strong Odor Incident.” The St. Croix Source, April 23, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/04/23/limetree-bay-responds-to-sites-strong-odor-incident/.

• This press release explains that there was “an operating upset” at the refinery on the night of April 22 and into the morning of April 23 which caused an offensive odor that spread into the community. The issue was corrected and Limetree management apologized “for any impact to the public.” This press release is almost identical to another press release with the same title and published on the same day, except that this release includes an apology to the community.

“Refinery Operations Pause Followed by Release of Strong Odor.” The St. Croix Source, April 23, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/04/23/reported-operations-pause-at-refinery-followed-by-strong-odor-release/.

• An “operating upset” at Limetree Bay, reportedly after operations were paused and restarted, caused a strong odor in nearby areas. This gas emission occurred the day after the April 21Reuters report that the refinery had restarted after an undisclosed issue caused the refinery to stop operations.

Sanicola, Laura. “Odor from U.S. Caribbean refinery prompts school closures, investigation.” Reuters, April 23, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/article/limetree-bay-refinery-odor-idAFL1N2MG1RS.

• An odor so offensive it caused school and COVID-19 vaccination clinic closures was the result of high levels of hydrogen sulfide released from Limetree Bay. The DPNR advised that people with respiratory issues take protective measures. According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), hydrogen sulfide has a “pungent ‘rotten egg’ odor” and is “extremely flammable and highly toxic.” A Limetree Bay spokesperson has said that the odor was the result of an “operating upset” and that the issue has been corrected. The DPNR is investigating the incident.

Borns, Patricia. “St. Croix schools evacuate as Limetree Bay refinery release overcomes students.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, April 24, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/st-croix-schools-evacuate-as-limetree-bay-refinery-release-overcomes-students/article_4f3b3d6f-4940-578d-9a3b-12e446cf444f.html.

• High amounts of hydrogen sulfide were released from Limetree Bay due to “an operating upset.” On April 23, the offensive smell of the gas caused school closures and health issues, and the DPNR advised that people with respiratory issues take protective measures. According to OSHA the gas can cause a health issues ranging from mild headaches to death. OSHA further advises that people should be careful around hydrogen sulfide because people can lose the ability to smell the offensive rotten-egg-like odor after exposure. Residents reported the odor to the DPNR as early as April 19, but Limetree Bay did not report the incident until April 22. The EPA is aware of the incident and is working with the DPNR to investigate.

“Dept. of Health Urging Community to Report Potential Health Problems Resulting From Limetree Bay Gas Release.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, April 24, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-health/virgin-islands-dept-of-health-urging-community-to-report-potential-health-problems-resulting-from-highly-toxic-hydrogen-sulfide-gas-release-from-limetree-bay.

• The DPNR confirmed on April 24 that there were high levels of hydrogen sulfide in a Limetree Bay flare header and is investigating the incident. The flammable, toxic, and offensive-smelling gas has affected Frederiksted for several days. Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion encouraged the public to report any symptoms to their healthcare providers. The article continues to explain the health risks associated with hydrogen sulfide.

“Government Warns About Potential Refinery-Emission Health Risk.” The St. Croix Source, April 24, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/04/24/government-warns-about-potential-refinery-emission-health-risk/.

• The DPNR confirmed on April 24 that high levels of hydrogen sulfide were released from Limetree Bay. The offensive-smelling gas has affected Frederiksted for several days. Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion encouraged the public to report any symptoms to their healthcare providers. The article continues to explain the health risks associated with hydrogen sulfide.

“Limetree Bay Apologizes for Gas Release That Fouled Frederiksted. The Refinery Also Sought to Bring Clarity on What Was Released.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, April 25, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-health/caribbean-limetree-bay-apologizes-for-gas-release-that-fouled-frederiksted-the-refinery-also-sought-to-bring-clarity-on-what-was-released-.

• Limetree Bay released a statement on April 24 apologizing for a gas release that spread an offensive odor throughout nearby areas and explaining the incident. The refinery statement said that “an operating upset” caused an increase in sulfur-containing gases to be directed through a refinery flare. The statement asserts that no hydrogen sulfide was released from the refinery. Hydrogen sulfide was directed through a flare which burned the gas and produced sulfur dioxide, which is safe in the levels that were released. The DPNR confirmed the same day that the odor was due to high levels of hydrogen sulfide in a refinery flare and Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion encouraged the public to report any symptoms to their healthcare providers.

Carlson, Suzanne and Patricia Borns. “Health Department asks St. Croix residents affected by Limetree emissions to report symptoms.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, April 26, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/health-department-asks-st-croix-residents-affected-by-limetree-emissions-to-report-symptoms/article_20fb01aa-95ae-550f-933e-fd561c371e75.html.

• On April 24 the Health Department urged residents experiencing health issues related to the release of sulfuric gases from Limetree Bay to seek medical attention and to report symptoms. DPNR Commissioner Jean-Pierre Oriol said that the gas that was released was hydrogen sulfide, however Limetree Bay asserts that while hydrogen sulfide was one of the gases that were sent through a flare, it was burned and converted to sulfur dioxide. The article continues to discuss the dangers and odors of the two gases and the experiences of residents.

Gilbert, Ernice. “Limetree Receiving ‘Several Community Complaints’ of Strong Odor.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, April 26, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-health/virgin-islands-limetree-receiving-several-community-complaints-of-strong-odor-.

• On Monday, April 26 Limetree Bay representatives said that they had received complaints from the surrounding community about a strong odor coming from the refinery and that they are investigating the cause. This comes after days of complaints about an offensive odor that the Department of Health identified as hydrogen sulfide, which can pose severe health risks.

Kossler, Bill. “Limetree Says Gas Release was Less Dangerous Sulfur Dioxide.” The St. Croix Source, April 26, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/04/26/limetree-says-gas-release-was-less-dangerous-sulfur-dioxide/.

• On Monday, April 26 Limetree Bay representatives said that the gas released from the refinery on April 22 that caused an offensive odor throughout nearby communities was not hydrogen sulfide, but sulfur dioxide, a less dangerous gas that was produced by burning hydrogen sulfide. This conflicts with the latest announcements from the DPNR which asserted that the odor was caused by hydrogen sulfide. The article continues to explain the differences between the two gases and the refinery’s explanation of what transpired.

“Limetree Continues to Investigate Flare Incident, Clarifies Media Reports.” The St. Croix Source, April 26, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/04/26/limetree-continues-to-investigate-flare-incident-clarifies-media-reports/.

• In this press release, Limetree Bay officials explain that an “upset in the sulfur processing part of the refinery” on April 22 and 23 caused increased amounts of sulfuric gases, including hydrogen sulfide, through a flare to be safely burned. The burning of sulfuric gases, however, produced sulfur dioxide which caused a strong odor in some nearby areas. The statement asserts that the problem was addressed in the morning of April 23 and that by Friday there were no traces of the odor left in the community. Further, refinery officials emphasize that there was no hydrogen sulfide released from the refinery.

Borns, Patricia. “Environmentalists ask U.S. EPA to send emergency response team to Limetree refinery.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, April 27, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/environmentalists-ask-u-s-epa-to-send-emergency-response-team-to-limetree-refinery/article_0c1f04af-dcf6-50c9-8c1e-81d5a310e789.html.

• The EPA is sending an emergency response team to Limetree Bay. This development comes after a group of environmental organizations including the St. Croix Environmental Association, NRDC, Sierra Club, Center for Biological Diversity, and Attorney Elizabeth Neville to call on the EPA to investigate the refinery due to a series of issues at the facility. The groups also assert that the refinery is not adequately monitoring sulfur dioxide emissions. The EPA response team “provides around-the-clock assistance at the scene of hazardous substance releases” and will ensure the refinery is adhering to all requirements. The article continues to provide background information on the most recent gas release, legal challenges from environmental groups, and the refinery’s PAL.

Borns, Patricia. “Limetree releases new plume of hazardous hydrogen sulphide.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, April 27, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/limetree-releases-new-plume-of-hazardous-hydrogen-sulphide/article_a1e8df4a-7912-5367-8e64-dbb6d7ddfa2b.html.

• The DPNR has confirmed that in the morning of April 26 hydrogen sulfide was again released into a flare at Limetree Bay. The EPA is investigating this and previous incidents at the refinery. Limetree Bay spokeswoman Erica Parsons has asserted that the flare burned all hydrogen sulfide, thus producing sulfur dioxide, which is less dangerous. However, this statement contradicts the DPNR’s reporting and Limetree Bay has not provided evidence for this claim.

Borns, Patricia. “Limetree’s odor problem continues with new neighbor complaints.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, April 27, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/limetree-s-odor-problem-continues-with-new-neighbor-complaints/article_3553c5e6-8b8c-5203-a11d-6c78dfa08e50.html.

• On Monday, April 26, people who live near Limetree Bay reported that another incident at the refinery resulted in an offensive odor in their community. The smell was described by some as similar to hot tar or propane. Later that day Erica Parsons, the Limetree Bay spokesperson, said that maintenance “may have caused a brief and unpleasant odor.” She apologized for any effect on the community and said that the maintenance was complete. USVI Congressional Delegate Stacey Plaskett has requested to speak with EPA officials about the refinery. Meanwhile, the EPA is reviewing the refinery’s PAL and looking into recent issues.

Eilperin, Juliet and Darryl Fears. “EPA, U.S. Virgin Islands officials launch probe after second St. Croix refinery accident.” The Washington Post, April 27, 2021. https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2021/04/24/virgin-islands-refinery-limetree/.

• After another potentially dangerous incident at Limetree Bay, this time resulting in sulfuric gases spreading to nearby communities, the EPA and USVI officials are investigating the refinery. An EPA spokesperson said that the EPA will ensure that the refinery is adhering to all requirements and that it is not negatively affecting public health. There is continued disagreement over what gas was released from the refinery, with the DPNR asserting that the gas was hydrogen sulfide and Limetree Bay representatives claiming that it was sulfur dioxide.

“EPA Looking Into Nose-Wrinkling Limetree Emissions.” The St. Croix Source, April 27, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/04/27/epa-looking-into-nose-wrinkling-limetree-emissions/.

• The EPA announced that it is investigating Limetree Bay after multiple incidents at the refinery that released offensive odors into the community. Initial reports claimed that the released gas was hydrogen sulfide, but the refinery asserts that it was sulfur dioxide. The EPA will be sending teams to Limetree Bay as part of this investigation and will coordinate with the DPNR and the Department of Health.

Neville, Elizabeth Leigh. “Open Forum: Environmental Organizations Write EPA About Limetree Refinery.” The St. Croix Source, April 27, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/04/27/open-forum-environmental-organizations-write-epa-about-limetree-refinery/.

• This open letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan from attorney Elizabeth Neville, one of the individuals involved in legal challenges to Limetree Bay, asks that the EPA send an Emergency Response Team to the refinery. The letter explains some of the effects that the gas releases from the refinery have had on the community and on public health. She continues to note that there have been several incidents at the refinery since it reopened that have adversely impacted residents and the environment. She asks that the EPA use advanced monitoring equipment to measure the refinery’s emissions and that it thoroughly investigate how the refinery has affected public health.

Sanicola, Laura. “EPA to send staff to U.S. Virgin Islands following refinery incidents.” Reuters, April 27, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/epa-send-staff-us-virgin-islands-following-refinery-releases-2021-04-27/.

• The EPA is sending a team to Limetree Bay to investigate an incident that released an odor into the community that made some feel ill and that closed schools. Limetree Bay representatives said that the odor was due to an “operating upset” that resulted in increased amounts of sulfuric gases through the refinery flare, which then created and released sulfur dioxide.

“EPA Sending Experts to Territory to Investigate Limetree Bay Gas Release That Fouled Parts of St. Croix in Recent Days.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, April 28, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-health/virgin-islands-epa-sending-experts-territory-to-investigating-limetree-bay-gas-release-that-fouled-parts-of-st-croix-in-recent-days.

• The EPA is investigating an incident at Limetree Bay that caused gas to be released from the refinery which spread into nearby areas and made people ill. This incident, according to Limetree Bay, was due to “an operating upset.” Another more recent incident also caused an offensive odor to spread into the community. Limetree Bay said that this was due to brief maintenance work. The EPA is now investigating the refinery to ensure it is adhering to all requirements. The article continues to provide information on past DOH and DPNR statements regarding the gas release as well as information on hydrogen sulfide.

Tigue, Kristoffer. “EPA to Send Investigators to Probe ‘Distressing’ Incidents at the Limetree Refinery in the U.S. Virgin Islands.” Inside Climate News, April 28, 2021. https://insideclimatenews.org/news/28042021/epa-to-send-investigators-to-probe-distressing-incidents-at-the-limetree-refinery-in-the-u-s-virgin-islands/.

• The EPA announced that it will send a team to Limetree Bay as part of an investigation into the refinery after a series of issues at the facility, specifically a release of sulfuric gases that spread into the community and caused health issues among residents, and a flaring incident that covered a neighborhood with oil droplets. This announcement may indicate that the EPA is conducting a more thorough investigation into the refinery.

“At Meeting With Limetree Bay, Bryan Stresses Need for Transparency, Expresses Support for Successful Refinery Operation.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, April 30, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-health/virgin-islands-at-meeting-with-limetree-bay-bryan-stresses-need-for-transparency-expresses-support-for-successful-refinery-operation.

• On April 27, Governor Bryan and Limetree Bay CEO Jeff Rinker met to discuss the refinery. According to a statement from Bryan, he shared with Rinker his concerns about the recent release of sulfuric gases from the refinery. Rinker assured Bryan that the released gas was sulfur dioxide, not hydrogen sulfide, that the refinery has thoroughly investigated the incident, and that the refinery is being appropriately transparent about the incident. Bryan also noted that his administration is focused on ensuring that the refinery operates safely and that it benefits the community.

“Governor and Limetree Bay CEO Meet to Discuss Refinery’s Operations on St. Croix.” The St. Croix Source, April 30, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/04/30/governor-and-limetree-bay-ceo-meet-to-discuss-refinerys-operations-on-st-croix/.

• This press release from Governor Bryan’s office explains that Bryan met with Limetree Bay CEO Jeff Rinker to discuss the refinery. DPNR Commissioner Jean-Pierre Oriol also attended. Bryan shared with Rinker his concerns about the recent release of sulfuric gases from the refinery. Rinker assured Bryan that the released gas was sulfur dioxide, not hydrogen sulfide, that the refinery has thoroughly investigated the incident, and that the refinery is being appropriately transparent about the incident. Bryan also noted that his administration is focused on ensuring that the refinery operates safely and that it benefits the community.

May 2021

Mass Media

Eilperin, Juliet and Darryl Fears. “EPA hits troubled Virgin Islands oil refinery with a violation notice.” The Washington Post, May 3, 2021. https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2021/05/03/epa-hits-troubled-virgin-islands-oil-refinery-with-violation-notice/

• The EPA served Limetree with a notice of violation for two major accidents.Limetree failed to operate five monitoring stations and a meteorological tower.  Limetree’s response stated that the monitoring equipment was necessary when the plant was owned by Hovensa and previously burned sulfur-containing residual fuel oil.  The EPA also ordered additional compliance inspections in the subsequent months.

Sanicola, Laura.  “U.S. Caribbean refinery agrees to resume air monitoring after EPA violation.” Reuters, May 5, 2021.  https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/caribbean-refinery-agrees-reinstate-air-monitors-after-epa-alleged-violation-2021-05-05/

• Limetree agrees to resume sulfur dioxide monitoring after EPA notification.

Sanicola, Laura. “Odor from St. Croix’s Limetree Bay refinery shuts schools twice in a month.” Reuters, May 6, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/world/us/odor-limetree-bay-refinery-shuts-us-caribbean-schools-twice-month-2021-05-06/

• Limetree is releasing “light hydrocarbon odors” due to maintenance of its coker unit.This led to three schools to close on Thursday May 6 due to noxious odors affecting air quality.  The smell began the day before on Wednesday May 5.  Limetree states that its investigations shows normal operations and nothing that would cause the odor.

Carlson, Suzanne. “St. Croix residents suffer new round of noxious fumes from Limetree Bay.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, May 7, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/st-croix-residents-suffer-new-round-of-noxious-fumes-from-limetree-bay/article_f1d8f7f4-cdcd-5073-82c3-3ca199ab708f.html

• New noxious fumes began Wednesday May 6 and were continuing into Thursday May 7.The Bureau of Motor Vehicles and three schools were forced to close, and residents complained of difficulty breathing and burning eyes.  These smells appeared just hours after Limetree announced a reinstatement of an ambient air monitoring program in the form of five area monitors.  Spokeswoman Erica Parsons did not respond to questions about whether the odor posed a public health risk.  The EPA sent a team of experts on April 30 to meet with members of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources.

Borns, Patricia. “Bryan Vos to Find Source of Emissions Hovering Over STX.” The St. Thomas Source, May 7, 2021. https://stthomassource.com/content/2021/05/07/bryan-vows-to-find-source-of-emissions-hovering-over-stx/

• Albert Bryan Jr. responds to complaints about emissions over parts of St. Croix.There were over 100 calls on Wednesday May 5 and Thursday May 6 to VITEMA and others about smells of “burnt rubber” and “rotten eggs.”  Gov. Bryan did not want to discount other possible sources, such as rum distilleries, asphalt plant and landfill.  Additional monitoring stations will be established at the west end of the island.

Eilperin, Juliet and Darryl Fears. “After another leak, EPA probes whether St. Croix refinery poses ‘an imminent risk to people’s health.’” The Washington Post, May 7, 2021. https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2021/05/06/limetree-bay-refinery/

• The EPA debates if Limetree poses “an imminent risk to people’s health” after third incident in three months.Complaints of nausea from the odors were reported by residents up to 10 miles away from refinery.  If the EPA determines operations to present sufficient risk, they will take appropriate action.  USVI planning and natural resources commissioner Jean-Pierre Oriol stated he did not believe the refinery caused the odor.

“Limetree Flare Sprayed Onto Homes, Impacting Water Cisterns.” The St. John Source, May 12, 2021. https://stjohnsource.com/2021/05/12/limetree-flare-sprayed-onto-homes-impacting-water-cisterns/

• A massive fireball and flare were seen at the Limetree Bay Refinery on May 12, 2021.Enfield Green residents were instructed to disconnect downspouts if able, or to not drink cistern water is unable to disconnect.  Limetree states that its top priority “is the safety and well-being of its personnel, the community and the environment.”

“Limetree Bay refinery on St. Croix USVI, May 12, 2021.” Virgin Islands Source, May 12, 2021. https://youtu.be/ZQvxj4SKY9o

• Video footage of flare at Limetree Bay refinery, courtesy of Hugh Pemberton of Reef Broadcasting.

Tigue, Kristoffer. “A U.S. Virgin Islands Oil Refinery Had Yet Another Accident. Residents are Demanding Answers.” Inside Climate News, https://insideclimatenews.org/news/12052021/a-u-s-virgin-islands-oil-refinery-had-yet-another-accident-residents-are-demanding-answers/

• Limetree Bay, one of the largest oil refineries in the United States, has had at least three accidents since reopening in February. Croix residents are demanding answers and the EPA is investigating.  “Flaring” at the plant happens when excess pressure causes a safety valve to release and burn off chemicals.  At Limetree, this happens when hydrogen sulfide is burned and converted into sulfur dioxide, both which can be deadly to humans.  Concerned groups include the St. Croix Environmental Association, the St. Croix Foundation for Community Development, the Crucian Heritage and Nature Tourism Foundation, and the Virgin Islands Good Food Coalition.  The February 4 flare incident contaminated at least 63 cisterns, which residents use after 30 years of leaking over 43 million gallons of oil into the island’s aquifer.  In that instance, Limetree offered a $2,000 settlement to residents in exchange for waiving liability.  They were fined $5 million in 2011 by the EPA and ordered to spend over $700 million on environmental upgrades.  Of the $4.9 million put into escrow, $4.5 has not yet been spent.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Limetree Bay refinery suspends production after spraying oil over more homes on St. Croix.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, May 13, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/limetree-bay-refinery-suspends-production-after-spraying-oil-over-more-homes-on-st-croix/article_41d1bd4b-1e0b-5407-baf1-3ecf5f8c842c.html

• New odors began spreading around the west end of St. Croix, and Limetree Bay suspended production once again.Enfield Green residents were asked to disconnect their cisterns due to unsafe drinking water from oil spray.  Both the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency and the Limetree Bay reported that there was a “flare” on site.

Eilperin, Juliet. “St. Croix refinery halts operations after raining oil on local residents once again.” The Washington Post, May 13, 2021. https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2021/05/12/limetree-bay-refinery/

• Limetree Bay Refining announces that it would temporarily halt operations after this second instance in just over three months.One of the areas affected included the affluent gated community of Enfield Green.

Eilperin, Juliet and Darryl Fears. “EPA orders Virgin Islands refinery to shut down, citing ‘imminent’ health threat.” The Washington Post, May 14, 2021.https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2021/05/14/limetree-bay-refinery/

• An EPA employee that was sent to investigate the Limetree Bay Refinery quickly noticed oil on their own windshield.The Biden administration ordered plan to shut down on May 14 (only the fourth time the EPA has invoked its emergency powers under the Clean Air Act).  This order highlighted accidental releases of oil, hydrogen sulfide, and sulfur dioxide.  One particular instance on April 23 was 562 times the federally allowed limit of hydrogen sulfide.  Former EPA administrator Judith Enck wrote that this particular case is “a sad example of environment racism.”  A gaseous leak on May 5 led to more than 200 complaints from residents with reports of “nausea, vomiting, stomach aches, itching, irritated eyes and rash.”

Tigue, Kristoffer. “Citing an ‘Imminent’ Health Thread, the EPA Orders Temporary Shut Down of St. Croix Oil Refinery.” Inside Climate News, May 14, 2021. https://insideclimatenews.org/news/14052021/epa-limetree-st-croix-oil-refinery-shut-down/

• The EPA ordered Limetree to shut down for 60 days following the latest incident.This is most significant enforcement since it revoked a key air pollution permit in March.  Many activists have highlighted this case as textbook environmental injustice.  Nearly 75% of the people in the communities north of Limetree are Black, and about 1/3 identify as Hispanic/Latino.  Also, over ¼ are below the national poverty line.  Environmentalists connect the plant’s operational permits to former President Trump’s “unfettered and irresponsible deregulatory agenda, and his administration’s penchant for granting sweetheart deals to well-connected corporate interests late in his term.”

Knutson, Jacob. “EPA orders St. Croix oil refinery to cease operations.” Axios, May 15, 2021. https://www.axios.com/epa-st-croix-limetree-bay-oil-refinery-f6581ab3-4284-47df-b4f5-6e2c7648f8f3.html

• The EPA ordered Limetree to cease all operations for 60 days.They said this was “due to multiple improperly conducted operations that present an imminent risk to public health” and repeated violations of the Clean Air Act in monitoring sulfur dioxide levels.  Boston-based private equity firm Arclight Capital Partners acquired the plant in 2016, after four years of not being in operation.  This latest incident was one of several financial and operational setbacks.

Caroll, Tobias. “Why Is It Literally Raining Oil in the Caribbean?” InsideHook, May 16, 2021. https://www.insidehook.com/daily_brief/news-opinion/caribbean-raining-oil-st-croix

• Oil is showering around St. Croix.Earlier this year, a malfunction led to oil to fall on 130 homes.

Carlson, Suzanne. “EPA website adds refinery air monitoring data.” The Virgin Islands Daily News, May 20, 2021. http://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/epa-website-adds-refinery-air-monitoring-data/article_c150ab89-52ab-5bea-ac6e-18a050ce8686.html

• The EPA added air monitoring information about Limetree’s Clean Air Act violations.Their website specifically about Limetree Bay includes values for sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide.  Rather than subpoena Limetree officials, 12 senators met privately with the officials in a closed-door meeting.  Officials denied responsibility and claimed they were providing water to affected families.

Gilbert, Ernice. “Over 200 St. Croix Residents Tap Attorney Lee Rohn in Class Action Lawsuit Against Limetree Bay, Two Other Law Firms File Separate Class Action Complaints.” The Virgin Islands Consortium, May 21, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-health/virgin-islands-over-200-st-croix-residents-tap-attorney-lee-rohn-in-class-action-lawsuit-against-limetree-bay-two-other-law-firms-file-separate-class-action-complaints

• The May 12 incident at Limetree led to a class action lawsuit by over 200 residents.Lee J. Rohn and Associates is working in consultation with Berger Montague, an environmental firm that represented the class action against the Exxon Valdez disaster.  The suit seeks monetary damages and injunctive relief.  This is at least the third class action suit against Limetree Bay.  According to the Limetree CEO, a bypass valve that was not correctly locked, ultimately leading to an operational issue.

June 2021

Mass Media

Source Staff. “Attorneys Seek Protective Order for Limetree’s Communications With Plaintiffs.” St. Croix Source, June 4, 2021. https://stcroixsource.com/2021/06/04/attorneys-seek-protective-order-for-limetrees-communications-with-plaintiffs/.

• This article outlines legal maneuvers by Limetree Bay refinery’s attorneys seeking a protective order over their communications with plaintiffs. It highlights legal strategies in environmental litigation and the opacity surrounding corporate responsibility in cases of alleged public harm.

Reuters Staff. “Limetree Bay Refinery Shut Due to Severe Financial Constraints.” Reuters, June 21, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/limetree-bay-refinery-shut-due-severe-financial-constraints-2021-06-21/.

• This article reports on the sudden shutdown of the Limetree Bay refinery in St. Croix due to financial difficulties. It situates the closure within a broader narrative of environmental controversy and regulatory scrutiny, providing insight into corporate instability following repeated pollution incidents.

Source Staff. “Controversial St. Croix Refinery Ceases Operations Given ‘Extreme Financial Constraints.’” St. Thomas Source, June 22, 2021. https://stthomassource.com/content/2021/06/22/controversial-st-croix-refinery-ceases-operations-given-extreme-financial-constraints/.

• This report expands on the cessation of operations at the St. Croix Limetree Bay refinery, emphasizing the environmental violations and public outrage that preceded the financial shutdown. It serves as a critical snapshot of regulatory failure and public health risk in the U.S. Caribbean.

July 2021

Mass Media

National Resources Defense Council. “The Island Where It Rained Oil: A Chance to Reimagine St. Croix.” NRDC. July 8, 2021. https://www.nrdc.org/stories/island-where-it-rained-oil-chance-reimagine-st-croix

• Outlines the history of oil pollution in St. Croix and argues for environmental justice and reimagined infrastructure. Connects Limetree’s closure with broader concerns about systemic neglect and contamination.

Reuters. “Limetree Bay Refinery Files for Chapter 11 – Court Filing.” Reuters. July 12, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/limetree-bay-refinery-files-chapter-11-court-filing-2021-07-12/

• Reports the Limetree Bay Refinery’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, detailing debts, operational shutdowns, and implications for creditors and employees.

United States Department of Justice. “United States Files Complaint and Reaches Agreement in Stipulation with Limetree Bay Terminals LLC.” Justice.gov. July 12, 2021. https://www.justice.gov/archives/opa/pr/united-states-files-complaint-and-reaches-agreement-stipulation-limetree-bay-terminals-llc

• Federal press release announcing a legal complaint and agreement regarding environmental violations at Limetree Bay Terminals, including commitments to future remediation and compliance.

VI Consortium. “It’s Over (For Now) for Limetree Bay Refining.” VI Consortium. July 12, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-top_stories/virgin-islands-its-over-for-now-for-limetree-bay-refining-

• Local article announcing the closure of Limetree Bay Refining. Covers impacts on refinery workers and local government responses, emphasizing the end of refinery operations following ongoing environmental violations.

 

August 2021

Mass Media

Staff Consortium. “Limetree Bay Terminals Receives $100 Million Investment; Funding Not Tied to Limetree Bay Refinery.” VI Consortium. August 10, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-business/virgin-islands-limetree-bay-terminals-receives-100-million-investment-funding-not-tied-to-limetree-bay-refinery-

• AMP Capital invests $100 million into Limetree Bay Terminals, providing financing for port operations and infrastructure—distinct from the now-shuttered refinery.

Plaskett, Stacey. “Plaskett Makes an Economic Case for St. Croix.” St. Thomas Source. August 11, 2021. https://stthomassource.com/content/2021/08/11/plaskett-makes-an-economic-case-for-st-croix/

• Virgin Islands Delegate to Congress Stacey Plaskett argues for federal economic investment in St. Croix, referencing the aftermath of Limetree’s closure and long-standing infrastructure needs.

Government of the Virgin Islands. “Governor Bryan Gets Positive Financial Outlook During 2021 Revenue Estimating Conference.” vi.gov. August 26, 2021. https://www.vi.gov/governor-bryan-gets-positive-financial-outlook-during-2021-revenue-estimating-conference/

• Summarizes Governor Bryan’s remarks on the Virgin Islands’ financial outlook during the 2021 Revenue Estimating Conference. The statement highlights projected recovery following major economic disruptions, including the Limetree refinery shutdown.

Source Staff. “Gas Flares Planned at Limetree Bay Refinery This Weekend.” St. Thomas Source. August 26, 2021. https://stthomassource.com/content/2021/08/26/gas-flares-planned-at-limetree-bay-refinery-this-weekend/

• Limetree Bay Refining announced scheduled gas flaring operations over the weekend as part of the facility’s ongoing shutdown procedures, following safety protocols and EPA oversight.

Staff Consortium. “Using EPA-Approved Procedure, Limetree Bay Will Start Purging Oil and Gas from Refinery This Weekend as Shutdown Process Continues.” VI Consortium. August 27, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-us/virgin-islands-using-epa-approved-procedure-limetree-bay-will-start-purging-oil-and-gas-from-refinery-this-weekend-as-shutdown-process-continues

• Limetree Bay began purging hazardous materials from the refinery using EPA-approved methods as part of the site’s dismantling. The process aims to prevent residual environmental damage.

Staff Writers. “Limetree Woos Buyers and Lights Flare for Shutdown Operations.” St. John Tradewinds. August 28, 2021. https://stjohntradewinds.com/limetree-woos-buyers-and-lights-flare-for-shutdown-operations/

• Reports on Limetree’s efforts to attract potential buyers while continuing shutdown flare operations. Includes regional economic commentary and resident concerns about flaring.

September 2021

Academic Publications

Mass Media

Carlson, Suzanne. “Limetree Bay Terminals Announces Reorganization and Staff Reductions.” The Virgin Islands Daily News. September 14, 2021. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/limetree-bay-terminals-announces-reorganization-and-staff-reductions/article_7ec763c8-dc3e-52b7-a652-dcb9aaa05656.html

• Limetree Bay Terminals announced staffing cuts and internal reorganization in response to ongoing financial instability. The changes reflect broader economic impacts of the refinery’s shutdown.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Limetree Could Have New Owner Before End of Year.” The Virgin Islands Daily News. September 15, 2021. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/limetree-could-have-new-owner-before-end-of-year/article_15dcc417-1984-5643-a106-1b69d129de24.html

• This article outlines the upcoming bankruptcy auction and possible sale of Limetree Bay Refining, citing interest from multiple companies and court-set timelines for a transfer of ownership.

Staff Consortium. “It Was a Good Run: Limetree Bay Employees Work Last Day at Shuttered Refinery.” VI Consortium. September 18, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-business/virgin-islands-it-was-a-good-run-limetree-bay-employees-work-last-day-at-shuttered-refinery

• Captures the final day of work for Limetree Bay Refining employees, with quotes from workers reflecting on the emotional and economic consequences of the plant’s closure.

Staff Consortium. “St. Croix Energy Engages Greenhill to Explore Bid for Limetree Bay Refining Assets.” VI Consortium. September 22, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-business/virgin-islands-st-croix-energy-engages-greenhill-to-explore-bid-for-limetree-bay-refining-assets

• Croix Energy hired Greenhill & Co. to assist with a potential bid on Limetree Bay Refining’s assets, positioning itself as a possible successor operator ahead of the bankruptcy auction.

Staff Writers. “Noxious Fumes Sicken Workers at Molasses Dock.” St. John Tradewinds. September 22, 2021. https://stjohntradewinds.com/noxious-fumes-sicken-workers-at-molasses-dock/

• Workers at the Molasses Dock in St. Croix experienced nausea and dizziness due to noxious fumes. The incident prompted health concerns and further scrutiny of industrial activity near the port.

VI News Staff. “As Bankruptcy Court Auction of Limetree Bay Approaches, Bryan Pushes to Save USVI’s Largest Private Employer.” VI News. September 29, 2021. https://www.vinews.org/posts/as-bankruptcy-court-auction-of-limetree-bay-approaches-bryan-pushes-to-save-usvis-largest-private-employer

• Governor Bryan emphasized the importance of preserving jobs in the lead-up to the Limetree Bay bankruptcy auction. His administration advocated for a buyer who would prioritize rehiring local workers.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Limetree Workforce Dwindles.” The Virgin Islands Daily News. September 30, 2021. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/limetree-workforce-dwindles/article_6c3ddae7-2357-5588-b3fa-ece825afd0a9.html

• Details the continued reduction of staff at Limetree Bay, with only a small core team remaining for shutdown and maintenance operations as the refinery nears the end of its bankruptcy proceedings.

October 2021

Mass Media

Island Life Staff. “Longer Deadline Approved for Limetree Sale; Buyers Circle, Eyes on EPA.” St. Croix Island Life. October 7, 2021. https://stcroixislandlife.com/longer-deadline-approved-limetree-sale-buyers-circle-eyes-epa/

• Covers the court-approved extension of the Limetree Bay Refining auction deadline and increasing interest from potential buyers, while noting concerns over EPA regulatory approval as a complicating factor.

Staff Consortium. “EPA ‘Red Tape’ Represents Major Obstacle for Potential Purchase and Restart of Limetree Bay Refinery.” VI Consortium. October 11, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-business/virgin-islands-epa-red-tape-represents-major-obstacle-for-potential-purchase-and-restart-of-limetree-bay-refinery

• Highlights how EPA regulations are deterring potential buyers from restarting Limetree Bay Refining, as firms hesitate to inherit environmental compliance issues and costly upgrades.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Judge Grants Request by Limetree Bay to Delay Auction to Next Month.” The Virgin Islands Daily News. October 13, 2021. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/judge-grants-request-by-limetree-bay-to-delay-auction-to-next-month/article_f8d3d7dd-2368-58c4-9b2f-8af061ea37ac.html

• A bankruptcy judge granted Limetree Bay’s request to push back its asset auction to November, citing the need for more time to attract qualified bidders and resolve operational concerns.

Source Staff. “Limetree Bay Faces Possible Liquidation as Bidders Hesitate.” St. Thomas Source. October 25, 2021. https://stthomassource.com/content/2021/10/25/limetree-bay-faces-possible-liquidation-as-bidders-hesitate/

• Reports growing uncertainty around Limetree’s future as bidders waver, raising the possibility of liquidation. Describes community and government responses to the stalled sale process.

Source Staff. “Limetree Agrees to Distribute Clean Water to More St. Croix Households.” St. Thomas Source. October 28, 2021. https://stthomassource.com/content/2021/10/28/limetree-agrees-to-distribute-clean-water-to-more-st-croix-households/

• In response to contamination concerns, Limetree agrees to expand bottled water distribution to impacted residents. The article notes continuing disputes over eligibility and corporate accountability.

VI News Staff. “Oil Hardens in Pipelines, Homeowners Affected by Flare Incident Neglected as Limetree Refinery Runs Out of Bankruptcy Funding.” VI News. October 31, 2021. https://www.vinews.org/posts/oil-hardens-in-pipelines-homeowners-affected-by-flare-incident-neglected-as-limetree-refinery-runs-out-bankruptcy-funding

• Covers the environmental and economic fallout from halted shutdown operations, including pipeline blockages and unresolved damages from past flaring incidents. Notes that bankruptcy funding is nearly exhausted.

November 2021

Mass Media

Source Staff. “Report: Refinery Closure Will Cost V.I. 800 Jobs, $1.8 Billion in Economic Activity.” St. Thomas Source. November 10, 2021. https://stthomassource.com/content/2021/11/10/report-refinery-closure-will-cost-v-i-800-jobs-1-8-billion-in-economic-activity/

• A report from a V.I. Economic Development Authority consultant estimates that the Limetree refinery shutdown could result in the loss of 800 jobs and $1.8 billion in total economic activity.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Limetree Closure a $2 Billion Blow to V.I. Economy.” The Virgin Islands Daily News. November 15, 2021. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/limetree-closure-a-2-billion-blow-to-v-i-economy/article_d4bfd78e-d3b8-5619-844d-b68340ae137b.html

• This article discusses economic fallout from the Limetree closure, citing government testimony that the loss in tax revenue, employment, and GDP could total over $2 billion.

Staff Consortium. “Cane Bay Partners’ David Johnson Is Largest Shareholder in St. Croix Energy.” VI Consortium. November 17, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-business/virgin-islands-cane-bay-partners-david-johnson-is-largest-shareholder-in-st-croix-energy

• Covers the financial backing of St. Croix Energy following their winning bid for Limetree Bay Refining, revealing David Johnson’s significant role as the primary shareholder.

Reuters Staff. “St. Croix Energy Wins Auction for Limetree Bay Refinery, Eyes Restart.” Reuters. November 18, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/st-croix-energy-wins-auction-limetree-bay-refinery-eyes-restart-2021-11-18/

• Reports on St. Croix Energy’s auction victory for Limetree Bay Refining and their plans to restart operations, contingent on environmental approvals and financial viability.

Source Staff. “St. Croix Energy Wins Bid for Bankrupt Limetree Bay Refinery.” St. Thomas Source. November 18, 2021. https://stthomassource.com/content/2021/11/18/st-croix-energy-wins-bid-for-bankrupt-limetree-bay-refinery/

• Confirms St. Croix Energy’s successful $20 million bid for Limetree Bay Refining, with local officials and community groups expressing cautious optimism.

Regan, Michael. “EPA Chief Tours Environmental Justice Communities.” The Washington Post. November 28, 2021. https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2021/11/28/epa-regan-environmental-justice-tour/

• EPA Administrator Michael Regan visited environmental justice communities including St. Croix during a national tour, highlighting government attention to historically marginalized and polluted areas.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration. “OSHA Cites Limetree Bay Refining LLC for Exposing Workers to Multiple Hazards.” U.S. Department of Labor. November 30, 2021. https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/osha/osha20211130

• OSHA cited Limetree Bay Refining for serious workplace safety violations, including chemical exposure risks and emergency response failures, based on inspections conducted earlier in the year.

December 2021

Academic Publications

Gerard, Frandelle, Sommer Sibilly-Brown, Jennifer Valiulis, and David Bond. Environmental Justice Begins in St. Croix.Bennington College Center for the Advancement of Public Action, December 2021. https://www.bennington.edu/center-advancement-of-public-action/environment-and-public-action/environmental-justice-begins-st

• This community-led environmental justice survey was conducted across St. Croix from June 17 to July 11, 2021. The project documented resident concerns about petrochemical exposure, falling oil droplets, and respiratory illness. It highlights grassroots knowledge production and community-centered data as critical tools for evaluating public health and energy infrastructure impacts.

Mass Media

Staff Writers. “Limetree Awards More Than $500K in Charitable Donations, Scholarships.” St. John Tradewinds.December 1, 2021. https://stjohntradewinds.com/limetree-awards-more-than-500k-in-charitable-donations-scholarships/

• Limetree Bay Terminals distributed over $500,000 in scholarships and charitable donations to local nonprofits and educational institutions, highlighting the company’s efforts to support the St. Croix community during its financial transition.

Source Staff. “Limetree Bay Refinery Faces $259K in Fines for Alleged OSHA Violations.” St. Thomas Source. December 3, 2021. https://stthomassource.com/content/2021/12/03/limetree-bay-refinery-faces-259k-in-fines-for-alleged-osha-violations/

• Details a citation by OSHA for numerous health and safety violations at Limetree Bay Refining, including failure to maintain proper emergency protocols and hazardous chemical procedures.

Source Staff. “Failed Bidder Contests Limetree’s Sale to St. Croix Energy.” St. Thomas Source. December 4, 2021. https://stthomassource.com/content/2021/12/04/failed-bidder-contests-limetrees-sale-to-st-croix-energy/

• A previous bidder challenged the bankruptcy court’s approval of St. Croix Energy’s bid for Limetree, citing procedural concerns and potential irregularities in the auction process.

Politsch, Meryl. “Oil Refinery Poised to Reopen on St. Croix Raises Concerns About Community Risk.” Inside Climate News. December 17, 2021. https://insideclimatenews.org/news/17122021/limetree-st-croix-oil-refinery-reopening/

• Investigates the implications of potentially restarting operations at the St. Croix refinery, highlighting local opposition, health risks, and regulatory uncertainties.

Reuters Staff. “Bankruptcy Judge to Approve $62 Million Limetree Bay Sale to Jamaican Company.” Reuters. December 21, 2021. https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/bankruptcy-judge-approve-62-million-limetree-bay-sale-jamaican-company-2021-12-21/

• A federal judge approved the sale of Limetree Bay Refining to West Indies Petroleum and Port Hamilton Refining for $62 million after a competitive auction process.

Staff Consortium. “West Indies Petroleum Wins Auction for Limetree Bay Refinery Over St. Croix Energy with $62 Million Bid.” VI Consortium. December 21, 2021. https://viconsortium.com/vi-business/virgin-islands-west-indies-petroleum-wins-auction-for-limetree-bay-refinery-over-st-croix-energy-with-62-million-bid

• Local reporting on the auction outcome confirming West Indies Petroleum as the winning bidder, displacing St. Croix Energy and sparking new uncertainty about the refinery’s future.

Grandoni, Dino. “Limetree Bay Refinery’s Sale Raises Concerns About Oversight.” The Washington Post. December 21, 2021. https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2021/12/21/limetree-bay-refinery-epa/

• Covers the sale of Limetree to West Indies Petroleum and questions whether EPA oversight will be sufficient under the new ownership, particularly in light of the refinery’s past environmental record.