2024

2024

January 2024

Academic Publications

Cleghorn, Leah L., Chantelle A. Cummings, and Keel County. “Experiences of Intimate Partner Violence in Same-Gender Relationships: A Study of Narratives from a Caribbean Context.” Journal of Family Violence 39, no. 1 (January 2024): 119–32. doi:10.1007/s10896-022-00427-0.

• Despite dominant narratives which only include partner violence in heterosexual couples, intimate partner violence (IPVA) also occurs in same-sex couples. Study uses “semi-structured interviews … with nine cisgender adults on their experiences of IPVA in same-gender relationships in Trinidad and Tobago.”

Darko, N., N. Millet, A. Usman, L. Teece, and E.L. Moss. “Exploring the Perspectives of Underrepresented Voices: Perceptions and Experiences of Uterine Cancer for Black African, Caribbean, Black British, and Mixed-Black Women in the UK to Develop Strategies for Early Symptom Presentation.” Gynecologic Oncology 180 (January 2024): 132–38. doi:10.1016/j.ygyno.2023.11.030.

• “The uterine cancer (UC) mortality rate in the UK is significantly higher for women who belong to a Black ethnic group compared to those from other ethnic groups. This study aimed to understand the views and experiences of UC amongst Black ethnic minority women in the UK…Women of Black African, Caribbean, Black British and Mixed-Black ethnicity were purposefully recruited to participate in focus groups and individual semi-structured interviews.”

Edwards, D. Brent, Mauro C. Moschetti, Pauline Martin, and Ricardo Morales-Ulloa, eds. Education and Development in Central America and the Latin Caribbean: Global Forces and Local Responses. 1st ed. Bristol University Press, 2024. https://doi.org/10.2307/jj.9692621.

• Ebook available through JStor. From summary, “Rooted in an international political economy theoretical framework, this book provides unique insights into the global forces and local responses that are shaping education systems in Central America and the Latin Caribbean (CALC). The book covers all Spanish-speaking countries of the CALC region and examines the effects of macro-economic pressures, geopolitical intervention, neo-colonial relationships, global pandemics, transnational gang networks, and the influence of international organizations. Chapters analyse the challenges and opportunities these global forces present to education systems in the region as well as highlighting the local efforts to address, mitigate, and counteract them. In doing so, the book illuminates how education can contribute to either maintaining or challenging inequalities and exclusion in the face of pressures from the global to local levels.”

Mass Media

Simon, Janeka. “EPA Recommends WAPA Implement Outreach Program For Customers Before Lifting “Do Not Drink” Advisory For St. Croix.” The Virgin Islands Consortium. January 3, 2024. https://viconsortium.com/vi-health/virgin-islands-epa-recommends-wapa-implement-outreach-program-for-customers-before-lifting–do-not-drink–advisory-for-st–croix

• Further testing of water for lead and other contaminants has returned further samples that exceed EPA safe levels- however, the EPA believes that these levels are not reaching the customers at the tap. A protocol of flushing water is necessary for it to be safe and free of these contaminants, and before rescinding the do not drink order, the “EPA recommends waiting…until an outreach or education plan has been developed and implemented.”

Carlson, Suzanne, “WAPA still working to identify cause of power outage, fuel spill.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 4, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-still-working-to-identify-cause-of-power-outage-fuel-spill/article_372346c4-9e72-5ffa-a00e-794d122c5560.html

• Covers both a morning power outage on St Thomas, as well as the October 25th oil spill, neither of which WAPA provided an explanation for.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Refinery withdraws request for a restraining order against terminal.” Virgin Islands Daily News.January 4, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/refinery-withdraws-request-for-a-restraining-order-against-terminal/article_b925c896-5759-5298-924e-299d8eeb7804.html

• Details of legal back and forth between previous and current owners of the closed refinery facility. Port Hamilton withdrew its December 27th complaint, “ claiming Ocean Point was demanding refinery contractors sign ‘Individual Access Agreements’ requiring them to “surrender substantial rights” to access the refinery.”

Macavoy, Kit. “EPA report cites water corrosivity, lead-containing brass elements in STX water system.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 5, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/epa-report-cites-water-corrosivity-lead-containing-brass-elements-in-stx-water-system/article_777e6a1a-78a1-5ebf-8c89-b1af35b54d3c.html

• According to an EPA report, lead and copper water contamination resulted, “primarily [from] lead-containing brass plumbing components.” This was worsened by corrosive treated sea water in the system and stagnant water within the pipes.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Islandwide power outage shuts schools, gov’t offices.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 9, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/islandwide-power-outage-shuts-schools-gov-t-offices/article_72c8088f-2fba-5c90-9462-3cdd4064f9fb.html

• Power outage caused schools, government offices, health centers, and businesses to shut down. “Deteriorating equipment in the power distribution system has also contributed to WAPA’s failures to keep the lights on for customers throughout the territory, and all customers on St. Thomas were left without power for about half-an-hour Wednesday morning. WAPA has not responded to questions about the cause of that failure.”

Simon, Janeka. “WAPA Struggles to Restore Power Following Cascade of Electrical Failures.” The Virgin Islands Consortium. January 9, 2024. https://viconsortium.com/vi-community_center/virgin-islands-wapa-struggles-to-restore-power-following-cascade-of-electrical-failures

• According to press releases from WAPA, the power outage, occurring from 5 am to 4:30 pm, was caused by the “loss of generation capacity at the Estate Richmond Power Plant,” which resulted in a cascade of other problems. According to Simon, “The outage resurfaces longstanding questions about the reliability of St. Croix’s electricity supply despite major investments in WAPA’s energy infrastructure, given the ability of one faulty propane pump to take down the island’s entire system for hours at a time.”

Macavoy, Kit. “WAPA announces online town hall for upcoming water plans.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 11, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-announces-online-town-hall-for-upcoming-water-plans/article_7a709d9d-3300-55fc-8143-daea867b7146.html

• Announcement of a town hall meeting to take place on January 17 between 5:30-7:00 PM. On the planned agenda were water bill credits, filter distribution, and further guidance for safe drinking water.

Source Staff. “WAPA Announces Water Filter Distribution on St. Croix from Jan. 18-20.” The St Croix Source. January 12, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/01/12/wapa-announces-water-filter-distribution-on-st-croix-from-jan-18-20/

• “Pitcher and faucet filters will be available from Jan. 18 to 20 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Distribution points include the Mall of St. Croix (former Kmart West parking lot, offering both drive-thru and walk-up options) and at the Frederiksted Parking Lot adjacent to Midre Cummings Park (drive-thru only). Managers at the Virgin Islands Housing Authority and the Human Services Department will deliver filters to their eligible residents and Meals on Wheels participants, according to the press release.”

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA still working to pay off debts to small businesses.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 12, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-still-working-to-pay-off-debts-to-small-businesses/article_43c21020-4ef3-5ced-9d68-19d6168dca2a.html

• Despite millions of dollars in subsidies funded by taxpayers, WAPA has outstanding debts with many small businesses. Featured here is The Avis, a recently shut down newspaper. From publisher Rena Brodhurst, “The Avis has pleaded with you for months and sometimes years to pay your outstanding balances. Once again we kindly ask you to pay us …We look forward to your cooperation in paying us what has been long overdue.”

Staff Consortium. “WAPA Schedules Water Filter Distribution in St. Croix from January 18-20.” The Virgin Islands Consortium. January 12, 2024. https://viconsortium.com/vi-community_center/virgin-islands-wapa-schedules-water-filter-distribution-in-st–croix-from-january-18-20-

• Further details on water filter distribution.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Major U.S. bond rating agency snubs WAPA.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 17, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/major-u-s-bond-rating-agency-snubs-wapa/article_ad31bd2f-b39c-53cd-ba68-dbe10c6e2dbc.html

• Fitch, one of three major bond rating agencies in the US, “​​has withdrawn ratings of the V.I. Water and Power Authority, due to a lack of transparency from WAPA’s management” relating to, “power failures, water quality concerns, cash flow challenges, and a fuel spill at the Randolph Harley Power Plant on St. Thomas that ended up in Lindbergh Bay,” amongst other concerns.

Macavoy, Kit. “WAPA, local and federal authorities discuss St. Croix water fixes during virtual town hall.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 18, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-local-and-federal-authorities-discuss-st-croix-water-fixes-during-virtual-town-hall/article_82991330-a2a1-5cc9-a60b-43de1c01c8ee.html

• Details on town hall meeting focused on water quality. Includes filter distribution, testing results, and plans to replace lead and copper pipe components.

Carlson, Suzanne. “No answer from WAPA regarding its financial issues.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 18, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/no-answer-from-wapa-regarding-its-financial-issues/article_1cf289e8-f430-51d6-a49c-a8b1b14147ca.html

• In response to a number of questions from The Virgin Islands Daily News, WAPA provided a brief response “but did not provide any additional information about WAPA’s financial status or long history of fuel spills.”

Source Staff. “WAPA CEO Affirms Fitch Ratings Withdrawal Has No Impact, IG Audit Ongoing.” The St Croix Source. January 18, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/01/18/wapa-ceo-affirms-fitch-ratings-withdrawal-has-no-impact-ig-audit-ongoing/

• In response to Fitch withdrawing its rating of WAPA, CEO Andy Smith says, “WAPA is no worse off now than it was before…We talk to the rating agencies on a regular basis and Fitch Ratings actually told us beforehand that it was going to take this step so there’s nothing acrimonious in our relationship.”

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA to face audit by V.I. Inspector General.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 19, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-to-face-audit-by-v-i-inspector-general/article_829d8a20-3595-5655-8221-73f928d22338.html

• “V.I. Inspector General Delia Thomas is proceeding with a special audit of the V.I. Water and Power Authority that was prompted by the Legislature, after senators voted to override a veto by Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. in June.” From Senate Majority Leader Kenneth Gittens, “If we don’t have a better understanding of what transpired and make an effort to hold individuals accountable for their actions, how can we ensure that WAPA does not make these same mistakes in the future?”

Source Staff. “Legislature Corner: Senator Gittens Expresses Concern Over Loss of WAPA Bond Ratings.” The St Croix Source. January 19, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/01/19/legislature-corner-legislature-corner-senator-gittens-expresses-concern-over-loss-of-wapa-bond-ratings/

• More from Senator Giddens, “The necessity of this audit is underscored by the recent announcement that Fitch Ratings has withdrawn most of its ratings for WAPA’s bonds as a result of inadequate financial information and an overall lack of transparency at the utility…This is a most concerning development, but not surprising given that the Legislature has also had great difficulty getting information from WAPA.”

Charlemagne, Nelcia. “WAPA Continues to Tackle Brown Water Crisis; Health Officials Confirm Additional Lead-Positive Case.” The Virgin Islands Consortium. January 19, 2024. https://viconsortium.com/vi-health/virgin-islands-wapa-continues-to-tackle-brown-water-crisis–health-officials-confirm-additional-lead-positive-case

• Further critiques of WAPA, this time from Congresswoman Dr Donna Christiansen.

WAPA. “WAPA Issues Statement Following Fitch Ratings Withdrawal and Inspector General’s Audit Announcement.” The Virgin Islands Consortium. January 20, 2024. https://viconsortium.com/vi-wapa/virgin-islands-wapa-issues-statement-following-fitch-ratings-withdrawal-and-inspector-general-s-audit-announcement

• “WAPA revealed that the lack of audited financial statements for fiscal years 2021, 2022 and 2023 is the primary factor for the rating agencies’ decision to withdraw their service. The authority said it would initiate the audits in the second quarter of 2024.”

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA vows ‘unwavering commitment to transparency’ on finances.” Virgin Islands Daily News.January 22, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-vows-unwavering-commitment-to-transparency-on-finances/article_7692c480-6e36-595d-b0f8-6631ca4b1c96.html

• Further coverage of the financial situation at WAPA post Fitch withdrawing their rating. From a press release, “Despite the recent withdrawal of Fitch’s rating, the community can be assured that this decision does not impact the Authority’s progress…for example, Moody’s, another credit rating agency, withdrew its credit rating of the Authority’s debt in March of 2023, and that had no impact on the Authority. Furthermore, approximately 40% of the Authority’s debt has never had a credit rating, so the Authority does not require a credit rating.”

Carlson, Suzanne. “Bryan: Amid challenges, territory ‘resolute’.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 23, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/bryan-amid-challenges-territory-resolute/article_0a8f3127-2c32-5589-96f2-bcceb054e143.html

• Coverage of Governor Bryan’s State of the Territory address, where WAPA’s troubles featured heavily.

Macavoy, Kit. “Bryan’s address elicits range of reactions from Senate.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 23, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/bryans-address-elicits-range-of-reactions-from-senate/article_cbb8072c-1eed-5a87-acac-c36d049385ef.html

• Coverage of responses to the State of the Territory address.

Charlemagne, Nelcia. “WAPA’s Declining Customer Base Could Accelerate With Proposed Rate Increase, PSC Warns, as Residents Flock to Solar.” The Virgin Islands Consortium. January 24, 2024. https://viconsortium.com/vi-wapa/virgin-islands-wapa-s-declining-customer-base-could-accelerate-with-proposed-rate-increase–psc-warns–as-residents-flock-to-solar

• “The Public Services Commission said on Tuesday it is concerned that approving an increase in the Water and Power Authority’s electricity Levelized Energy Adjustment Clause would cause the utility’s already-declining customer base to shrink even further…Frozen since 2022, the current LEAC is well below the true cost of fuel and purchased power, Mr. Setorie disclosed, with the government of the Virgin Islands deciding to subsidize excess costs that would otherwise be passed on to the ratepayer.”

Carlson, Suzanne. “Legislature defends law limiting governor’s appointees to WAPA board.” Virgin Islands Daily News.January 24, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/legislature-defends-law-limiting-governors-appointees-to-wapa-board/article_bb6234cb-16e7-5400-bd23-7cdcfca27714.html

• While Governor Bryan and the Justice Department seek to overturn it, the legislature is urging the Supreme Court to “uphold a law that limits the governor’s ability to appoint members of the V.I. Water and Power Authority’s governing board.”

Carlson, Suzanne. “Legislature clarifies discrepancy in WAPA court case.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 25, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/legislature-clarifies-discrepancy-in-wapa-court-case/article_1352ba16-0ece-5fa7-a9d3-47dd0e8a66b4.html

• “An article published on page 3 of the Jan. 24 edition of The Daily News reported that a V.I. Supreme Court amicus brief filed by the V.I. Legislature’s Chief Legal Counsel Amos Carty Jr. said Act No. 8472 reduced the governor’s number of appointees to the V.I. Water and Power Authority board ‘from nine to six.’ The Daily News initially reported that the figure appeared erroneous, as the total number of board members was reduced from nine to seven, including one remaining Cabinet-level appointed member.”

Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority. “WAPA Expresses Gratitude to Customers, Partner Agencies for Successful Water Filter Distribution.” The St Croix Source. January 26, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/01/26/wapa-expresses-gratitude-to-customers-partner-agencies-for-successful-water-filter-distribution/

• Message from WAPA after the distribution of water filters, thanking their customers and partner agencies.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA urged to focus on power service after apologizing for Facebook comment.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 26, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-urged-to-focus-on-power-service-after-apologizing-for-facebook-comment/article_3afb097c-ddf3-5910-b65b-63a08e23181d.html

• Shanell Petersen, communications director of WAPA, issues an apology for since deleted Facebook comment -made by the official WAPA Facebook page- referring to a woman as a Karen, after she criticized the accuracy of a post.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA hears updates on Vitol deal, fuel spill.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 29, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-hears-updates-on-vitol-deal-fuel-spill/article_5f5973fd-f06d-51e6-b7bb-0347c55b6976.html

• Details many of the things the WAPA board was briefed on during a meeting, including funding, oil spills, infrastructure, and more.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA working on education and outreach for water customers.” Virgin Islands Daily News. January 31, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-working-on-education-and-outreach-for-water-customers/article_9311d89c-6bb0-504c-9318-41b552cbf527.html

• As per EPA recommendations, WAPA is developing an outreach and education plan in concordance with the lifting of the stop drinking water order. From the EPA, “EPA recommended implementation of this important public awareness campaign to educate residents so that customers know how to take steps to protect themselves from lead exposure (e.g., cleaning faucet aerator screens, flushing water at the tap, and replacing internal household plumbing fixtures).”

Myhre, Sonja Lynn, Michelle Scobie, Eija Meriläinen, Ilan Kelman, and Unni Gopinathan. “Climate Change, Community Action, and Health in the Anglophone Caribbean: A Scoping Review.” Public Health Reviews (2107-6952), January 25, 2024, 1–13. doi:10.3389/phrs.2023.1605843.

• “This scoping review investigates the status of research focusing on the nexus of community action, climate change, and health and wellbeing in anglophone Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS).” Analyzes 14 mixed method studies on the connections between individual/community health and climate change.

February 2024

Academic Publications

Martínez, Ramírez, Josefina, Siracusa, Cristina Saldivia, Pérez, Leonor‐Victoria González, Zelaya, Florence Juana Maria Cuadra, Mora, Roberto Gerber, Osmani Fabricio Guevara Cabrera, Molina, Ronell Bologna, et al. 2024. “Barriers to Early Diagnosis and Management of Oral Cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean.” Oral Diseases, February, 1. doi:10.1111/odi.14903.

• Study regarding the barriers to diagnosis and treatment of oral cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean. A survey was “distributed to health professionals trained in Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and Dentists with clinical and academic expertise in oral potentially malignant disorder (OPMD) and oral cancer. Data obtained were systematically organized and analyzed descriptively using Microsoft Excel.” Findings indicate multiple major barriers.

Mendoza-Cano, O., and E. Murillo-Zamora. 2024. “Assessing the Asthma-Related Burden of Disease in Latin American and Caribbean Countries: A Sociodemographic Perspective.” Public Health (Elsevier) 227 (February): 163–68. doi:10.1016/j.puhe.2023.12.016.

• Study of asthma across Latin America and the Caribbean from 1990 to 2019, whose findings indicate “heterogeneous age, gender, and country-related variations in asthma rates across Latin American and Caribbean countries and emphasizes the influence of sociodemographic factors on its burden.”

Pugh, James Kent, and Justin V Palarino. 2024. “Natural Disasters Are Primary Reason Island Areas Residents Moved.” Unites States Census Bureau, February. https://policycommons-net.ccl.idm.oclc.org/artifacts/11338613/natural-disasters-are-primary-reason-island-areas-residents-moved/12227629/.

• “Between 2015 and 2020, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared major disasters in all four U.S. Island Areas — American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI). During this five-year period, from a quarter to nearly a half of their residents moved to a new residence, according to recently released 2020 Census of the Island Areas tables.”

Mass Media

Simon, Janeka. “WAPA Announces Deadline for Alva C. McFarlane Scholarship Applications.” The Virgin Islands Consortium. February 3, 2024. https://viconsortium.com/vi-community_center/virgin-islands-wapa-announces-deadline-for-alva-c–mcfarlane-scholarship-applications

• Announcement of application period for a WAPA-funded scholarship, which “will award up to $60,000 to those seeking bachelor’s degrees in engineering programs, and up to $20,000 for associate’s degree or technical studies in Electrical Engineering Technology, Electronics Engineering or related fields.”

Carlson, Suzanne. “Port Hamilton Refining explains ‘plant closing’ notice.” Virgin Islands Daily News. February 5, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/port-hamilton-refining-explains-plant-closing-notice/article_0cd01e5a-1baa-5382-81f3-f227f456cbb1.html

• Port Hamilton workers were given 90-day notices of contract cancellations through staffing agency Pinnacle Services, on January 25, pending further negotiations. Port Hamilton responded, noting that “negotiations have advanced to the point where some of the potential investors have asked Port Hamilton to take steps that would allow them the greatest flexibility for the investment. One of those steps is potentially renegotiating Port Hamilton’s existing contracts.”

Carlson, Suzanne. “Ocean Point, Port Hamilton Refining are still pursuing competing claims.” Virgin Islands Daily News. February 6, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/ocean-point-port-hamilton-refining-are-still-pursuing-competing-claims/article_6b6b42ac-593a-56bf-bdc2-92e37dbe5cef.html

• Details of further legal pursuits between Ocean Point and Port Hamilton, claiming that Port Hamilton is not in compliance with their agreement.

Shimel, Judy. “Government House Counters Legislature in Fight Over WAPA Board Restructure.” The St Croix Source. February 6, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/02/06/government-house-counters-legislature-in-fight-over-wapa-board-restructure/

• “The legal fight over the structure of the Water and Power Authority governing board moved closer to resolution this week. Lawyers representing Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. filed written arguments with the V.I. Supreme Court over a 2021 action taken by the 34th Legislature.” The legal fight is in reference to the amount of WAPA board seats appointed by the governor.

Macavoy, Kit. “Before lead and copper scare, feds noted major issues in STX water system.” Virgin Islands Daily News.February 9, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/before-lead-and-copper-scare-feds-noted-major-issues-in-stx-water-system/article_6ede2e8e-3151-58c5-8b03-071fb0baea5a.html

• Prior to the most recent water issues, the EPA had sent WAPA a “notice of significant deficiencies” regarding water infrastructure on the island. This September 27th letter had just been made public at the time of the article’s publication.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Refinery accuses Ocean Point of prolonging response to smoldering coke, conveyor belt fire in 2022.” Virgin Islands Daily News. February 12, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/refinery-accuses-ocean-point-of-prolonging-response-to-smoldering-coke-conveyor-belt-fire-in-2022/article_f34d7f76-8ae0-56ef-a142-749d96261be4.html

• More legal claims made between Port Hamilton and Ocean Point, this time in reference to a claim that Ocean Point “repeatedly interfered with Port Hamilton’s efforts to contain the coke smoldering situation.”

Bhola, Alexandra. “WAPA seeks aspiring engineers for scholarships.” Virgin Islands Daily News. February 13, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/island_life/wapa-seeks-aspiring-engineers-for-scholarships/article_b90e2e1f-c0be-52ef-a01a-d39b7443bb1d.html

• More information on the WAPA-funded Alva C. McFarlane Scholarship for aspiring engineering students.

Buchanan, Don. “PSC Denies WMA, Hears from WAPA.” The St Croix Source. February 14, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/02/14/psc-denies-wma-hears-from-wapa/

• Article mainly in reference to waste management, but also includes information about reports from WAPA’s Andrew Smith, regarding the placement of additional hydrants in the water grid to help flush the system.

Macavoy, Kit. “Update: Bryan: Gov’t docked hospital allotments to help WAPA.” Virgin Islands Daily News. February 15, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/update-bryan-gov-t-docked-hospital-allotments-to-help-wapa/article_031dd6c1-2012-5bb4-abb3-bc7ee64e5c30.html

• “Asked about rumors of supply shortages in territory hospitals early this week, Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. said the government had previously been docking the hospitals’ allotments because of non-payments to the V.I. Water and Power Authority.‘So it’s like six in one, half a dozen in the other — essentially robbing Peter to pay Paul,’ he said. ‘We’ve since kind of stopped doing that. We’re trying to give the hospitals their full allotments so they can maintain their supply levels. But the hospitals are always having cash flow problems — that’s nothing new.’”

Simon, Janeka. “WAPA’s Project Delays Cost $3 Million Monthly, AMI System Faces 60% Failure Rate.” The Virgin Islands Consortium. February 16, 2024. https://viconsortium.com/vi-economy/virgin-islands-wapa-s-project-delays-cost–3-million-monthly–ami-system-faces-60–failure-rate

• Delays and shortcomings of an advanced metering system (AMI), as well as delays in completing and implementing studies on renewable energy sources by WAPA.

Source Staff. “Biden’s Investing in America Agenda to Provide USVI with $16.5M for Water Infrastructure Upgrades.” The St Croix Source. February 20, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/02/20/bidens-investing-in-america-agenda-to-provide-usvi-with-16-5m-for-water-infrastructure-upgrades/

• 16.5 million from President Biden’s Investing in America initiative will be granted to USVI water. “‘President Biden’s Investing in America agenda continues to transform communities for the better with this latest infusion of funds for critical water infrastructure projects,’ said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. ‘With $50 billion in total, the largest investment in water infrastructure in our nation’s history, EPA will enable communities across the nation to ensure safer drinking water for their residents and rebuild vital clean water infrastructure to protect public health for decades to come.’”

Source Staff. “St. Croix Public Schools Welcome Donations of Water Coolers, Water Jugs and Copiers.” The St Croix Source. February 21, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/02/21/st-croix-public-schools-welcome-donations-of-water-coolers-water-jugs-and-copiers/

• A series of donations to St Croix’s public schools from Rashidi Clenance, the Tim Duncan Foundation, and ViVid Streaming include water coolers and jugs for drinking water.

Cobb, Sian. “WAPA Files Motion to Dismiss Suit Over Lead in St. Croix Water.” The St Croix Source. February 27, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/02/27/wapa-files-motion-to-dismiss-suit-over-lead-in-st-croix-water/

• WAPA has filed a motion to dismiss the class action lawsuit brought against them regarding lead and copper levels found in drinking water in the Fall of 2023. In the motion, general counsel Dionne G. Sinclair argues the plaintiffs “repeatedly conflate the presence of discolored water, not necessarily considered harmful by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), with the presence of lead and copper. The overlap is so pervasive as to render uncertain the claimed impact of lead or copper, if any.”

Buchanan, Don. “More Electric Vehicles on the Way for WAPA.” The St Croix Source. February 29, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/02/29/more-electric-vehicles-on-the-way-for-wapa/

• WAPA plans to expand its fleet of electric videos with seven new electric Ford F-150s.

“WAPA Governing Board to Convene.” The St Croix Source. February 29, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/event/wapa-governing-board-to-convene-10/

• Announcement of a WAPA board meeting, with links to attend.

March 2024

Academic Publications

Acevedo, Ivonne, Francesca Castellani, Giulia Lotti, and Miguel Székely. 2024. “Labour Market Gender Gaps in the Time of COVID-19 in Latin America and the Caribbean.” Applied Economics (Print), March, 1–16. https://doi.org/10.1080/00036846.2024.2323550.

• “The trend of declining gender gaps in labour market indicators in Latin America in previous decades did not change significantly in most countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, (i) women were harder hit in terms of employment losses during the 2020 shock; (ii) in 2021 they often remained less likely to work compared to 2019; and, (iii) in some countries the gender gap in employment rates widened. Accumulated income losses were larger for women in most cases. Women with lower education levels, aged 14–24, living in urban areas, and working in the tertiary sector were the most affected.”

Aldana Arana, Dalila, Tania P. Gil Cortés, Víctor Castillo Escalante, and Rosa E. Rodríguez-Martínez. 2024. “Pelagic Sargassum as a Potential Vector for Microplastics into Coastal Ecosystems.” Phycology 4 (1): 139–52. doi:10.3390/phycology4010008.

• Research on the impacts of microplastics on Sargassum seaweed, which are linked to harmful algae blooms.

Harris-Glenville, Fiona, and Patrick Cloos. 2024. “‘I Think They Should Give Primary Health Care a Little More Priority’. The Primary Health Care in Caribbean SIDS: What Can Be Said about Adaptation to the Changing Climate? The Case of Dominica— a Qualitative Study.” BMC Primary Care 25 (1): 1–15. doi:10.1186/s12875-024-02311-w.

• Study on the role of and impact to primary health care systems on small island developing states due to climate change. “The Essential Public Health Functions should integrate social and climate and other environmental determinants of health to guide primary care activities to protect the health of communities. This study highlights the need for improved research on the linkages between climate events and health outcomes, surveillance, and development of plans informed by contextual knowledge in the SIDS.”

Kyriakakis, Stavroula, Caitlin Compton-Almo, and Sadie Goddard-Durant. 2024. “Subsistence and Survival: Strategies Women in the Republic of Barbados Engaged in Transactional Sex Work Employ to Stay Safe.” Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma, March, 1–19. doi:10.1080/10926771.2024.2332604.

• “Women engaged in sex work (WESW) are at increased risk for exposure to work setting violence. This phenomenological study examines the experience of work setting violence and strategies utilized to maintain safety for WESW in Republic of Barbados in the Caribbean.”

Pérez-Pech, Wilbert Andrés, Alberto de Jesús-Navarrete, and Abel Abraham Vargas-Espositos. 2024. “Does Sargassum Contribute to Meiofauna Dispersal? The Case of Tardigrades and Nematodes in the Mexican Caribbean.” Marine Environmental Research 195 (March): N.PAG. doi:10.1016/j.marenvres.2024.106349.

• Research into Sargassum seaweed and its impacts on meiofauna, which “are the smallest metazoans dwelling in the substratum of streams and other stationary surfaces, such as tree root wads and other large debris.”

Silva, Paula, Murielle Colombet, Florencia Moreno, Friederike Erdmann, Anastasia Dolya, Marion Piñeros, Charles A Stiller, Eva Steliarova-Foucher, and None the. 2024. “Incidence of Childhood Cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean: Coverage, Patterns, and Time Trends.” Revista Panamericana de Salud Pública 48 (February): 1–1. https://doi.org/10.26633/rpsp.2024.11.

• Study provides an overview of patterns and trends in cancer among children and teenagers in Latin America and the Caribbean, from 1993-2012. “Extended and sustained support of cancer registration is required to improve representativeness and timeliness of data for childhood cancer control in LAC.”

Mass Media

Macavoy, Kit. “East End Substation repairs hit snag as WAPA looks to increase St. Thomas power resiliency.” Virgin Islands Daily News. March 1, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/east-end-substation-repairs-hit-snag-as-wapa-looks-to-increase-st-thomas-power-resiliency/article_e03dcd55-bd29-5b2b-ae12-0f13db9b5983.html

• Details of a meeting regarding improving the power grid on St Thomas, including an extension of a repair project and a time and cost extension on another project.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA ordered to produce financial docs in debt dispute.” Virgin Islands Daily News. March 5, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-ordered-to-produce-financial-docs-in-debt-dispute/article_12ea427d-9b4c-5852-ae34-6811a5d1ae31.html

• “A federal judge has ordered the V.I. Water and Power Authority to produce documents showing WAPA’s assets and fuel payment records, amid an ongoing dispute over WAPA’s $24.5 million debt to former fuel supplier Trafigura. On Thursday, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Robert Molloy ordered WAPA to produce the records by March 14. WAPA agreed to pay the $24.5 million in overdue fuel bills in a consent judgement entered on May 10, 2017, but nearly seven years later, WAPA has still failed to pay that debt.”

Cobb, Sian. “Justices Hear Oral Arguments in Bryan Suit Over WAPA Board.” The St Croix Source. March 12, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/03/12/justices-hear-oral-arguments-in-bryan-suit-over-wapa-board/

• Article details both the history of the laws governing WAPA’s board and governance, and the oral arguments provided in the Governor’s challenge to laws changing the ability to appoint several members.

“WAPA’s Hannah’s Rest Waterline Rehab Project Commences; Other Rehab Projects Continue.”  The St Croix Source. March 12, 2024 https://stcroixsource.com/2024/03/12/wapas-hannahs-rest-waterline-rehab-project-commences-other-rehab-projects-continue/

• Work commenced on Hanna’s Rest Waterline Rehabilitation, which will cost 3.2 million and run until September 2024. “The project’s scope will entail replacing Hannah’s Rest’s existing old ductile iron waterlines with 10,800 feet of 6-inch C-900 PVC water pipe, valves, fittings, service connections, meter boxes, hydrants and road pavement restoration. The replacement of these pipes will benefit Estate Hannah’s Rest community by improving water quality, reducing system-wide water loss and improving infrastructure and system reliability. The new piping material is C-900 PVC, which is both environmentally sustainable and optimal for long-term use in underground infrastructure.”

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA board law at center of Supreme Court debate.” Virgin Islands Daily News. March 13, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-board-law-at-center-of-supreme-court-debate/article_0c2c26d9-c905-5cc0-bafc-451bd5ba1d0f.html

• “Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. is still fighting to overturn a law reorganizing the V.I. Water and Power Authority’s governing board, but V.I. Supreme Court Associate Justice Ive Arlington Swan said Tuesday that Bryan is failing to recognize ‘that WAPA is not an executive branch department.’”

Macavoy, Kit. “Lawsuit describes widespread failings at WAPA to maintain St. Croix water system.” Virgin Islands Daily News. March 19, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/lawsuit-describes-widespread-failings-at-wapa-to-maintain-st-croix-water-system/article_9c40c0c8-62cd-53a3-b5d8-4140754046aa.html

• A lawsuit brought by a former employee of WAPA “contained bombshell allegations about the V.I. Water and Power Authority, describing rampant dysfunction and fraudulent practices in St. Croix’s water testing operations.” The lawsuit enumerates a number of complaints, including “missing, expired or uncertified equipment needed to properly conduct water testing — and a history of back-dating certifications — expired lab tech certifications, chlorine levels regularly below legal requirements, unsafe and unsecured field sample locations and insufficient corrosion control.”

Carlson, Suzanne. “Wartsila units on island since 2021 still idle.” Virgin Islands Daily News. March 20, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wartsila-units-on-island-since-2021-still-idle/article_62853460-9562-53bc-a974-1a50b5109cf2.html

• WAPA and generator company Wartsila are involved in a dispute, based on generators that have been sitting idle since 2021, due to monetary issues.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA says ‘human error’ caused October diesel discharge, cleanup ongoing.” Virgin Islands Daily News. March 22, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-says-human-error-caused-october-diesel-discharge-cleanup-ongoing/article_3e4af9a8-b5eb-55df-b1b9-fc003093bf96.html

• According to WAPA, the October oil discharge on St Thomas was due to human error. According to a spokesperson, “we want to assure the public that we have taken action to address the internal personnel matter. Human error was identified as the cause, and we have determined the full extent of the situation is not due to equipment failure.”

Source Staff. “WAPA Undergoes Comprehensive Training Program of Fleet and PPE on St. Croix.” The St Croix Source.March 27, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/03/27/wapa-undergoes-comprehensive-training-program-of-fleet-and-ppe-on-st-croix/

• Details of a fleet training program undergone by WAPA.

“WAPA Governing Board to Meet.” The St Croix Source. March 27, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/event/wapa-governing-board-to-meet-8/

• Announcement and link to a WAPA board meeting.

Simon, Janeka. “WAPA Faces Accusations of Widespread Consumer Fraud as Lawsuit Awaits Class-Action Determination.” The Virgin Islands Consortium. March 27, 2024. https://viconsortium.com/vi-wapa/virgin-islands-wapa-faces-accusations-of-widespread-consumer-fraud-as-lawsuit-awaits-class-action-determination

• Details of 12 plaintiffs and their complaints against WAPA of deceptive business practices, as well as erroneously cutting power to customers. The plaintiffs are attempting to file a class-action suit, originally brought by 7 plaintiffs in 2021.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA board hears details about Wartsila dispute, fuel cleanup costs.” Virgin Islands Daily News. March 28, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-board-hears-details-about-wartsila-dispute-fuel-cleanup-costs/article_3719a40e-e104-54a0-b3ea-af92649a524e.html

• Details on multiple ongoing WAPA related issues, including the idle Wartsila generators, oil clean up on St Thomas, and monetary shortcomings.

Simon, Janeka. “WAPA Confronts Historic Cash Flow Crisis as it Secures 6-Month Fuel Contract Ahead of Hurricane Season.” The Virgin Islands Consortium. March 29, 2024. https://viconsortium.com/vi-hurricane_season/virgin-islands-wapa-confronts-historic-cash-flow-crisis-as-it-secures-6-month-fuel-contract-ahead-of-hurricane-season

• In preparation for hurricane season, WAPA “approved a contract to secure a land-based supply of fuel over the next six months, in an effort to mitigate the risk of a potential interruption in their usual sea freight deliveries due to inclement weather during the hurricane season.” However, the amount of fuel stored is less than desired, based on lack of funds.

April 2024

Academic Publications

 

Fuller, Nikki, Emily McMahon, Allison North, A.J. Petty, Chryssanthi Tzetzis, Jacob Calus, Abisage Sekarore, et al. “Observations of Trash in the Deep Tropical Atlantic and Caribbean Sea.” Marine Pollution Bulletin 209 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.117182.

• Evidence of anthropogenic impacts on deep-ocean systems is frequently observed, even upon the first explorations of these remote environments. One of these impacts comes from marine debris, trash that is dumped or transported into the deep ocean. Understanding the abundance and distribution of marine debris is critical to identifying holistic changes and feedbacks that influence the health and sustainability of ocean ecosystems. Here, we document widespread plastic, metal, and glass debris in deep waters of the tropical Atlantic and CaribbeanSea, observed by remotely operated and human occupied submersibles. Trash was observed from depths 250 to >6000 m. A total of 139 pieces of debris were found, including a ladder, clothing, cans, cutlery, single-use sauce packages, and a parachute. These findings further illustrate the extent of debris pollution in deep waters and the need to understand the impact of debris pollution on sustainability in Earth’s largest habitat.

LaBennett, Oneka. Global Guyana : Shaping Race, Gender, and Environment in the Caribbean and Beyond. New York: New York University Press, 2024. https://public.ebookcentral.proquest.com/choice/PublicFullRecord.aspx?p=30747165.

• Exposes the global threat of environmental catastrophe and the forms of erasure that structure Caribbeanwomen’s lives in the overlooked nation of GuyanaPreviously ranked among the hemisphere’s poorest countries, Guyana is becoming a global leader in per capita oil production, a shift which promises to profoundly transform the nation. This sea change presents a unique opportunity to dissect both the environmental impacts of modern- world resource extraction and the obscured yet damaging ways in which intersectional race and gender formations circumscribe Caribbean women’s lives.Drawing from archival research and oral history, and examining mass-mediated flashpoints across the African and Indian diasporas–including Rihanna’s sonic routes, ethnic conflict reportage, HBO’s Lovecraft Country, and Netflix’s Indian Matchmaking–Global Guyana repositions this marginalized nation as a nexus of social and economic activity which drives popular culture and ideas about sexuality while reshaping the geopolitical and literal topography of the Caribbean Oneka LaBennett employs the powerful analytic of the pointer broom to disentangle the symbiotic relationship between Guyanese women’s gendered labor and global racial capitalism. She illuminates how both oil extraction and sand export are implicated in a well-established practice of pillaging the Caribbean’s natural resources while masking the ecological consequences that disproportionately affect women and children. Global Guyana uncovers how ecological erosion and gendered violence are entrenched in extractive industries emanating from this often-effaced but pivotal country. Sounding the alarm on the portentous repercussions that ambitious development spells out for the nation’s people and its geographical terrain, LaBennett issues a warning for all of us about the looming threat of global environmental calamity.

Thompson, Victor D. Sustainability in Ancient Island Societies : An Archaeology of Human Resilience. Edited by Scott M. Fitzpatrick, Jon Erlandson, and Kristina Gill. Gainesville: University Press of Florida, 2024. https://www.jstor.org/stable/10.2307/jj.13167851.

• This volume explores the impacts humans have made on island and coastal ecosystems and the ways these environmentshave adapted to anthropogenic changes over the course of millennia”– Provided by publisher.”Examining dynamic interactions between humans and island environments This volume explores the impacts humans have made on island and coastal ecosystems and the ways these environments have adapted to anthropogenic changes over the course of millennia. Case studies highlight how island populations developed social and political strategies to effectively manage their ecosystems, ensuring the long-term survival of their societies and the persistence of their cultural traditions. In case studies from islands in the Pacific, the Caribbean, and the Atlantic, contributors apply resilience theory, historical ecology, niche construction theory, and human behavioral ecology to foreground Indigenous resiliency and sustainability. Modern island and coastal societies face daunting challenges in the decades to come, including climate change, sea level rise, and the loss of habitable lands and heritage resources. Sustainability in Ancient Island Societies argues that the study of past human responses to such changes, especially practices rooted in Indigenous traditional ecological knowledge, can inform solutions to manage these threats today. A volume in the series Society and Ecology in Island and Coastal Archaeology, edited by Victor D. Thompson and Scott M. Fitzpatrick”– Provided by publisher.

 Castillo, Karl D., Colleen B. Bove, Annabel M. Hughes, Maya E. Powell, Justin B. Ries, and Sarah W. Davies. “Gene expression plasticity facilitates acclimatization of a long-lived Caribbean coral across divergent reef environments.” Scientific Reports 14, no. 1 (2024): 7859.

• Local adaptation can increase fitness under stable environmental conditions. However, in rapidly changing environments, compensatory mechanisms enabled through plasticity may better promote fitness. Climate change is causing devastating impacts on coral reefs globally and understanding the potential for adaptive and plastic responses is critical for reef management. We conducted a four‑year, three‑way reciprocal transplant of the Caribbean coral Siderastrea siderea across forereef, backreef, and nearshore populations in Belize to investigate the potential for environmental specialization versus plasticity in this species. Corals maintained high survival within forereef and backreef environments, but transplantation to nearshore environments resulted in high mortality, suggesting that nearshore environments present strong environmental selection. Only forereef‑sourced corals demonstrated evidence of environmental specialization, exhibiting the highest growth in the forereef. Gene expression profiling 3.5 years post‑transplantation revealed that transplanted coral hosts exhibited profiles more similar to other corals in the same reef environment, regardless of their source location, suggesting that transcriptome plasticity facilitates acclimatization to environmental change in S. siderea. In contrast, algal symbiont (Cladocopium goreaui) gene expression showcased functional variation between source locations that was maintained post‑transplantation. Our findings suggest limited acclimatory capacity of some S. siderea populations under strong environmental selection and highlight the potential limits of coral physiological plasticity in reef restoration.

Mass Media

Source Staff. “TNC USVI Coral Innovation Hub Receives NOAA’s Coral Research Center Designation.” St. Croix Source, April 5, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/04/05/tnc-usvi-coral-innovation-hub-receives-noaas-coral-research-center-designation/.

• This article reports on the designation of the TNC USVI Coral Innovation Hub as a Coral Reef Research Center by NOAA. The hub, located in St. Croix, plays a key role in coral reef conservation and restoration in the Caribbean and beyond. The designation enables the hub to access resources and partnerships to further its mission. The article underscores the hub’s contributions to coral restoration science and its role in fostering community engagement for long-term ecosystem health.

Querrard, Gabrielle. “Co-Op Community Garden Makes Farming More Accessible for Virgin Islanders.” St. Croix Source, April 5, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/04/05/co-op-community-garden-makes-farming-more-accessible-for-virgin-islanders/.

• This article details the creation of the Wenner Hill Cooperative Garden on St. Thomas, initiated by Mark and Gemma Wenner to combat littering and foster community pride. The cooperative offers residents a chance to rent garden plots, encouraging sustainable farming and personal wellness. The garden has become a community hub, promoting local collaboration and environmental stewardship. The article showcases how small-scale initiatives can positively impact neighborhoods.

Shimel, Judi. “Social Science Surveys Supply New Information on Climate Change Effects.” St. Croix Source, April 7, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/04/07/social-science-surveys-supply-new-information-on-climate-change-effects/.

• This article reports on a social science research initiative led by visiting students from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, aimed at assessing how climate change affects Virgin Islanders. Through interviews with local residents and leaders, the research highlights community concerns and vulnerabilities related to climate adaptation. Hosted by the University of the Virgin Islands’ Caribbean Green Technology Center, the study helps fill data gaps in climate impact research, with findings contributing to broader climate adaptation strategies.

Ellis, Susan. “V.I. Toxic Releases Decreased in Last Two Years According to EPA.” St. Croix Source, April 8, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/04/08/v-i-toxic-releases-decreased-in-last-two-years-according-to-epa/.

• This article highlights a 21% decrease in toxic releases in the U.S. Virgin Islands between 2013 and 2022, as reported by the Environmental Protection Agency. The report attributes part of the decline to the closure of the Limetree Bay refinery in 2021. The EPA data reveals that a significant portion of toxic waste is managed through recycling and treatment, with minimal direct releases into the environment. This report provides insight into local environmental improvements and ongoing industrial challenges in managing toxic waste.

Cobb, Siân. “EPA Slams Port Hamilton’s Bid to Dodge Consent Decree Mandate.” St. Croix Source, April 17, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/04/17/epa-slams-port-hamiltons-bid-to-dodge-consent-decree-mandate/.

• This article reports on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) opposition to Port Hamilton Refining and Transportation’s attempt to avoid installing a flare gas recovery system at the St. Croix refinery. The company contends that it should be allowed to restart operations without the system, citing precedents set under a previous consent decree issed at a facility in Limetree Bay. The EPA argues that the recovery system is mandatory for protecting public health and reducing air pollution. This dispute highlights environmental regulatory enforcement challenges in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Carlson, Suzanne. “OMB Still Garnishing Hospital Funding to Pay WAPA.” Virgin Islands Daily News, April 19, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/omb-still-garnishing-hospital-funding-to-pay-wapa/article_5ffa55ee-2e92-5111-8f9c-3da1c78c1f45.html.

• This article discusses the financial challenges facing Schneider Hospital, particularly its inability to cover expenses due to the garnishment of its funds to pay the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA). Schneider CEO Tina Comissiong outlines the impact of this situation on the hospital’s ability to provide long-term care for mentally ill and medically vulnerable patients. The piece highlights the systemic issues related to inadequate mental health facilities, unpaid debts from various departments, and the broader financial crisis affecting healthcare and utility management in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It also emphasizes the strain on hospital resources, the need for government intervention, and ongoing discussions about potential solutions.

Probasco, Mat. “EPA Approves $62 Million For USVI Solar Power.” St. Croix Source, April 22, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/04/22/epa-approves-62-million-for-usvi-solar-power/.

• This article reports on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s $62.45 million grant to the U.S. Virgin Islands Energy Office for solar power and energy storage projects. The funding, awarded through the Solar for All program, aims to increase solar energy access in low-income and disadvantaged communities. The grant supports the expansion of residential solar power systems, aligning with the broader goals of environmental justice and addressing the territory’s high energy costs.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Bryan Declares State of Emergency, Citing WAPA Blackouts, Debt.” Virgin Islands Daily News, April 23, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/bryan-declares-state-of-emergency-citing-wapa-blackouts-debt/article_214c2c50-cf5e-5c33-b040-f63d30c5b332.html.

• This article covers the state of emergency declared by U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr. in response to the rolling blackouts on St. Croix, caused by the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA) failing to make payments to generator supplier Aggreko. The emergency highlights the ongoing financial crisis within WAPA, which owes significant debts to multiple suppliers, while customers continue to face high electricity costs. Bryan discusses the government’s plans to stabilize WAPA, including creating a task force and potentially hiring a management turnaround company. The article emphasizes the interconnected nature of government debt, the healthcare system, and utility management, as well as the broader impact of WAPA’s financial struggles on daily life in the territory.

Source staff. “FEMA Commits $384M to Rebuild Educational Facilities on St. Croix and St. Thomas.” St. Croix Source, April 23, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/04/23/fema-commits-384m-to-rebuild-educational-facilities-on-st-croix-and-st-thomas/.

• This article discusses FEMA’s allocation of $384.8 million to rebuild and repair school infrastructure in the U.S. Virgin Islands, focusing on St. Croix and St. Thomas. The funding will support the demolition and reconstruction of several elementary schools and the repair of other educational facilities damaged by hurricanes Irma and Maria. The article emphasizes the ongoing collaboration between FEMA and local authorities to restore safe, modern schools, reflecting the long-term recovery efforts in the territory.

Ellis, Susan. “Senate Committee Discusses WAPA Woes in Emergency Meeting.” St. Croix Source, April 24, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/04/24/senate-committee-discusses-wapa-woes-in-emergency-meeting/.

• This article covers an emergency Senate meeting discussing the financial crisis faced by the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA). Various government agencies, hospitals, and WAPA officials testified about outstanding debts, particularly unpaid utility bills. The article emphasizes the challenges WAPA faces, such as fuel costs, power outages, and unpaid government dues, alongside proposed initiatives to stabilize the authority.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Education, Energy Office Officials Tout New STX Solar Micro-Grid.” Virgin Islands Daily News, April 24, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/education-energy-office-officials-tout-new-stx-solar-micro-grid/article_4c273de6-97d3-54d9-8bd8-25d7aeb76a4c.html.

• This article details the completion and ribbon-cutting ceremony of a solar micro-grid at the St. Croix Educational Complex, a project aimed at providing reliable power to both the school and its role as a community emergency shelter. Supported by a $625,000 grant from the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Energizing Insular Communities initiative, the micro-grid is expected to save the complex $9,000 to $10,000 monthly on energy bills and provide power during emergencies. The piece highlights the collaborative effort between the Education Department and the V.I. Energy Office, the significance of renewable energy in the Virgin Islands, and ongoing challenges, including a theft of solar panels during construction. The article also touches on broader energy resilience efforts, including a $62.5 million grant from the EPA’s “Solar for All” program to fund similar projects for disadvantaged communities.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Senators Vow to Hold WAPA Accountable for Blackouts.” Virgin Islands Daily News, April 24, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/senators-vow-to-hold-wapa-accountable-for-blackouts/article_5ee41e18-a7a9-5cd6-bc98-c53e4aa08dda.html.

• This article reports on the Virgin Islands Senate’s efforts to hold the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA) accountable for ongoing blackouts and financial mismanagement. Despite a $2.3 million emergency payment to Aggreko to restart leased generators, blackouts continued due to mechanical issues at WAPA’s Richmond plant. Senators expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and accountability regarding WAPA’s finances, including the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The article outlines legislative concerns about WAPA’s longstanding issues with corruption, mismanagement, and unsustainable energy practices, as well as Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s response to the crisis. The piece emphasizes the need for long-term reform to prevent future blackouts and stabilize the territory’s energy grid.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA Says Insurers ‘Refused to Pay’ for 2017 Hurricane Damages.” Virgin Islands Daily News, April 25, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-says-insurers-refused-to-pay-for-2017-hurricane-damages/article_44a5e2a2-5efc-5c71-9462-edbd8915437f.html.

• This article outlines the ongoing legal battle between the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA) and its insurers regarding unpaid claims for damages caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. WAPA alleges that its insurers, along with an adjuster and broker, engaged in unfair practices that resulted in the denial of insurance payouts. The article provides details of the amended lawsuit, which seeks $20 million per storm in damages and highlights the long-term consequences of the unresolved claims on WAPA’s recovery efforts.

MacAvoy, Kit. “Education Clarifies Scope of Work Following $385M FEMA Commitment.” Virgin Islands Daily News, April 26, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/education-clarifies-scope-of-work-following-385m-fema-commitment/article_bcb4c537-2edd-5113-80a6-9490983ad69a.html.

• This article reports on FEMA’s $385 million commitment to replace and repair multiple U.S. Virgin Islands elementary schools damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. It outlines the scope of work, which includes the replacement of buildings at several schools on St. Croix and St. Thomas. The article also clarifies the V.I. Education Department’s plans to merge and modernize certain schools, while other facilities will be shuttered. The funding marks a significant step in restoring educational infrastructure in the territory.

 

May 2024

Academic Publications

Sun, Yue, Mengqiu Wang, Mingqing Liu, Zhongbin B. Li, Zhaotong Chen, and Bowen Huang. “Continuous Sargassum Monitoring across the Caribbean Sea and Central Atlantic Using Multi-Sensor Satellite Observations.” Remote Sensing of Environment 309 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rse.2024.114223.

• Recurrent transnational Sargassum blooms across the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean have received growing attention. Different multispectral sensors, including Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), Visible Infrared Imager Radiometer Suite (VIIRS), and Ocean and Land Color Instrument (OLCI), have been used to map their distributions. However, the synergistic use of multi-sensor observations for high temporal resolution Sargassum monitoring is lacking. Here, by combining MODIS (on Aqua and Terra), VIIRS (on JPSS1 and SNPP), and OLCI (on Sentinel-3A and -3B) observations, 3-day mean Sargassum distributions were mapped across the Caribbean Sea and Central Atlantic. The Sargassum biomass densities were derived using the sensor-specific Alternative Floating Algae Index (AFAI)-biomass model, and the consistency between the six sensors was examined using MODIS Aqua as the reference sensor. Comparison of the Sargassum biomass derived from different sensors shows that they have strong linear correlations (R 2 ≥ 0.95), demonstrating high consistency and continuity between the six-sensor observations. On average, the combined six-sensor datasets provide ∼6 times more valid observations compared to the MODIS-only dataset in 2021, enabling the generation of the 0.5° 3-day mean products over ∼90% of the study region. Such 0.5° 3-day mean products detected ∼10-20% more biomass in the bloom peak month (June 2021) compared to the monthly mean counterpart. Increasing the spatial resolution to 0.1°, the 3-day mean products can continuously monitor Sargassum dynamics with eddies and tropical cyclones, which cannot be well captured by single sensors. This study highlights that combining multiple polar-orbiting satellite observations can achieve 3-day gap-free monitoring of floating macroalgae dynamics in the Caribbean Sea and tropical Atlantic, thus facilitating the analyses of the bloom response to different environmental conditions and the prediction of future bloom events.<br>• Continuous Sargassum monitoring with combined MODIS, VIIRS, and OLCI data. • ∼90% of the tropical Atlantic can be monitored every 3 days at 0.5° resolution. • ∼10-20% more Sargassum biomass detected in summer using 0.5° 3-day mean products. • Sargassum migration with mesoscale eddies captured using 0.1° 3-day mean maps. • High-frequency Sargassum changes during hurricanes also captured.

Mass Media

 

Kirkpatrick, Sara. “Reef Reports Providing Healthy Dose of Info on STJ Corals.” Virgin Islands Daily News, May 2, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/island_life/reef-reports-providing-healthy-dose-of-info-on-stj-corals/article_c20f9865-e686-5702-b380-f2f3d8097334.html.

• This article discusses the efforts of coral researchers on St. John who run the social media pages St. John Reef Reports to share information about coral health and restoration efforts. The report highlights the work of Nicholas Durgadeen and his team from the University of the Virgin Islands, who regularly treat corals affected by Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease. Through the Facebook and Instagram pages, the researchers engage the public by sharing updates, underwater photography, and stories from their dives, aiming to raise awareness of coral conservation.

MacAvoy, Kit. “Expenses, Not Revenues, Cause for Concern in V.I.’s Financial Future.” Virgin Islands Daily News, May 8, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/expenses-not-revenues-cause-for-concern-in-v-i-s-financial-future/article_17c4a378-65fd-51fa-b15c-f6b6d798a4cf.html.

• This article reports on the 2024 Spring Revenue Estimating Conference in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where government officials expressed concerns about the territory’s mounting expenses despite favorable revenue forecasts. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and other financial leaders highlighted the challenges posed by inflation and rising costs, with Bryan suggesting that an expense estimating conference is more urgently needed than a revenue forecast. The report provides projections for tourism, tax collections, and infrastructure projects but emphasizes the financial strain posed by the territory’s growing expenditures.

Probasco, Mat. “EPA Pledges $12 Million for USVI Drinking Water.” St. Croix Source, May 2, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/05/02/epa-pledges-12-million-for-usvi-drinking-water/.

• This article reports on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement of $12.7 million in federal funding to address lead exposure in the U.S. Virgin Islands’ drinking water. The funds are part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and are intended to help eliminate lead poisoning, particularly in communities of color and low-income areas. The article discusses lead contamination concerns on St. Croix in 2023, which were later found to be the result of flawed testing rather than widespread contamination. The piece also highlights ongoing efforts by WAPA to upgrade St. Croix’s water infrastructure and the significance of the new federal support for improving water quality.

Cobb, Siân. “EHI Disputes Court Order Transferring Caneel Bay Improvements to Government.” St. Croix Source, May 4, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/05/04/ehi-disputes-court-order-transferring-caneel-bay-improvements-to-government/.

• This article reports on EHI Acquisitions’ legal challenge to a court order requiring the transfer of improvements at the Caneel Bay Resort to the federal government. EHI contends that the court overlooked its mortgage on the property, arguing that the Retained Use Estate (RUE) has not ended due to the mortgage’s active status. The article provides an overview of the complex legal and ownership disputes surrounding the resort, which has remained in ruins since hurricanes in 2017. It also outlines the arguments from both sides and potential implications of the court’s decision.

Virgin Island Daily News “Island Green Living Updates Public on Plastic, Aluminum Recycling.” Virgin Islands Daily News, May 8, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/island_life/island-green-living-updates-public-on-plastic-aluminum-recycling/article_e2e79f97-b584-5ff5-a6ce-622c51991fa2.html.

• This article provides an update on Island Green Living’s efforts to recycle aluminum cans and plastic on St. John. Since its inception, the organization has collected over 3.4 million aluminum cans and 78,500 pounds of plastic. The report highlights the organization’s recent shipment of recycled materials and the challenges of processing recyclables mixed with non-recyclable items like glass and cardboard. The article also provides information on where residents can drop off recyclables, emphasizing the importance of properly sorting plastics and cans.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Judge Terminates Consent Decree for WAPA’s Power Plant on St. Croix.” Virgin Islands Daily News, May 9, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/judge-terminates-consent-decree-for-wapa-s-power-plant-on-st-croix/article_e372e84e-d95d-5765-8af6-6fba0bfd74eb.html.

• This article reports on the termination of a federal consent decree involving the V.I. Water and Power Authority’s (WAPA) Estate Richmond Power Plant on St. Croix. The decree, which stemmed from Clean Air Act violations, was lifted after a U.S. District Court judge ruled that WAPA was no longer in violation. The piece outlines the history of the violations, the conditions of the consent decree, and WAPA’s compliance, including the payment of civil penalties and the completion of required measures to address air pollution at the plant.

Virgin Island Daily News “Suggestions to Improve Our Tourist-Based Economy.” Virgin Islands Daily News, May 9, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/opinion/suggestions-to-improve-our-tourist-based-economy/article_7fe69832-dee1-5f7e-8ef3-66e3a83e2291.html.

• This letter to the editor offers several recommendations for improving the tourism industry in the U.S. Virgin Islands, particularly on St. Thomas. The author suggests cleaning up the islands, improving road infrastructure, better scheduling of cruise ships to avoid overcrowding, regulating the cannabis industry to attract more tourists, and addressing high utility costs that affect local businesses. The letter reflects local concerns about the state of the territory and provides actionable ideas to enhance the tourism experience for visitors.

Source Staff. “Governor Vetoes Three-Step WAPA Fix Proposed by Senate.” St. Croix Source, May 9, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/05/09/governor-vetoes-three-step-wapa-fix-proposed-by-senate/.

• This article details Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s veto of three bills passed by the Virgin Islands Senate, intended to address the financial crisis facing the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA). The proposed measures included reappropriating funds to cover utility bills for hospitals and government agencies, utilizing the Budget Stabilization Fund to pay WAPA’s debts, and restructuring emergency declaration processes. Governor Bryan explained that the proposed bills were either unnecessary or would undermine executive power, particularly in responding to emergencies. The article provides insights into the ongoing financial struggles of WAPA and the complexities of legislative and executive branch interactions in addressing the crisis.

Source Staff. “V.I. National Park Moving Ahead With Caneel Bay Transition to NPS.” St. Croix Source, May 10, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/05/10/v-i-national-park-moving-ahead-with-caneel-bay-transition-to-nps/.

• This article details the Virgin Islands National Park’s efforts to transition the Caneel Bay Resort on St. John to National Park Service management following a U.S. District Court ruling affirming federal ownership of the land. It highlights the ongoing legal disputes with EHI Acquisitions, LLC, which managed the resort under a Retained Use Estate agreement, and outlines NPS’s phased plan for public access to the area. The report also discusses environmental cleanup efforts related to asbestos debris from Hurricanes Irma and Maria, emphasizing the challenges and timelines for reopening the resort and ensuring public safety.

“Systemic Disenfranchisement in the Virgin Islands.” Virgin Islands Daily News, May 10, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/systemic-disenfranchisement-in-the-virgin-islands/article_de2747be-1fc4-5f06-96d2-f8d0e5e310b7.html.

• This letter to the editor discusses the legislative representation issues in the U.S. Virgin Islands, particularly the underrepresentation of St. John residents. It highlights how the current districting system violates the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment and argues for fairer representation in the Virgin Islands Legislature. The author calls for a restructuring of legislative districts to ensure accountability and equality for all islands, especially considering the upcoming Sixth Constitutional Convention.

Source Staff. “Island Green Living Recycles 3.4M Aluminum Cans and 78.5K lbs. of Ocean-Bound Plastics.” St. Croix Source, May 10, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/05/10/island-green-living-recycles-3-4m-aluminum-cans-and-78-5k-lbs-of-ocean-bound-plastics/.

• This article reports on the achievements of Island Green Living in recycling over 3.4 million aluminum cans and 78.5K pounds of ocean-bound plastic. The nonprofit organization continues its efforts to remove toxic waste from St. John’s beaches and roadsides, while emphasizing the need for more community support. The piece highlights the involvement of key community members and volunteers in the operation, as well as the challenges of handling non-recyclable items like glass and cardboard. Island Green Living’s efforts contribute to building a more climate-resilient and environmentally friendly Virgin Islands.

Akin, Bernetia. “U.S. Civil Rights Commission Lends an Ear to V.I. Issues.” St. Croix Source, May 12, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/05/12/u-s-civil-rights-commission-lends-an-ear-to-v-i-issues/.

• This article discusses the Virgin Islands Advisory Committee’s presentation to the U.S. Civil Rights Commission, focusing on civil rights issues arising from the territory’s political relationship with the federal government. The presentation highlights disparities such as the inability of Virgin Islanders to vote in presidential elections and the limited congressional representation. Attorney Pamela Colon, who chairs the advisory committee, underscores the tension between extending full civil rights and maintaining limitations on the territory’s self-governance. The article also hints at future reports by the committee and explores potential topics like political status and social security restrictions.

Carlson, Suzanne. “NPS Cleaning Up Caneel Bay for Public Reopening.” Virgin Islands Daily News, May 15, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/nps-cleaning-up-caneel-bay-for-public-reopening/article_1b112613-e997-58cc-8ec5-bb01cb3b7909.html.

• This article reports on the National Park Service’s efforts to clean up and prepare Caneel Bay Resort on St. John for reopening after its closure following the 2017 hurricanes. The article discusses the challenges faced by the NPS, including legal battles over ownership, site remediation efforts, and plans for future development. It highlights community concerns and provides updates on the Park Service’s cleanup activities, which involve staff from multiple national parks. The article also notes that the NPS is working toward establishing public access to the beach and historical areas in the coming months.

“Public Works to Begin Major Road Projects on St. Croix.” Virgin Islands Daily News, May 16, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/public-works-to-begin-major-road-projects-on-st-croix/article_0b84e294-cedc-5931-a5b1-2132e0af58c1.html.

• This article details the Virgin Islands Public Works Department’s announcement of major road repair projects on St. Croix. The projects include upgrades to roads in downtown Christiansted, as well as sections of Queen Mary Highway, with completion expected by August 2024. The report discusses the coordination between Public Works and other local agencies and highlights the progress made on several delayed projects. The article also notes safety advisories for motorists during the construction period.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Lack of Maintenance Blamed for Major Water, Power Outages.” Virgin Islands Daily News, May 16, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/lack-of-maintenance-blamed-for-major-water-power-outages/article_2b90d89b-e2e2-5409-b031-73b69a4691df.html.

• This article discusses the major water and power outages in the St. Thomas-St. John district caused by the V.I. Water and Power Authority’s (WAPA) failure to maintain aging infrastructure. The report highlights the ongoing delays in using new, more efficient Wartsila generators due to a payment dispute, as well as issues with older generators at the Harley Power Plant. The piece provides updates on the government’s attempts to address the outages and the declared State of Emergency related to WAPA’s financial and operational challenges.

Querrard, Gabrielle. “‘Kickin It’ Launches Crowdfunding Campaign to Jump-Start Cultural Preservation Initiative.” St. Croix Source, May 17, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/05/17/kickin-it-launches-crowdfunding-campaign-to-jump-start-cultural-preservation-initiative/.

• This article introduces Kickin It University (KIU), a program launched by Kyra James’ nonprofit organization, Kickin It, which aims to preserve Virgin Islands’ culture through digital education. The crowdfunding campaign seeks to ensure inclusive cultural education, offering classes on traditional skills like basket weaving, quadrille dancing, and culinary arts. The program also hopes to strengthen ties across the Virgin Islands diaspora and create opportunities for Virgin Islands creatives to engage with their heritage.

Penn, Adisha. “WAPA Board: Weeks of Outages Come Down to Money, Maintenance and Nature.” St. Croix Source, May 24, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/05/24/wapa-board-weeks-of-outages-come-down-to-money-maintenance-and-nature/.

• This article reports on the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA) board meeting addressing the causes of recent power outages in the territory. WAPA CEO Andrew Smith explained that the outages were due to a combination of faulty equipment, maintenance issues, and natural causes such as lightning strikes and heavy rain. The article discusses WAPA’s financial challenges, the need for generator maintenance, and measures being taken to address the outages, such as preventative maintenance and repairs to the propane fuel valve for Unit 15. Smith emphasized that while zero outages are unlikely, improvements in redundancy and maintenance could help reduce outages in the future.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA Failure on St. John Leads to Call for Protest Today.” Virgin Islands Daily News, May 24, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-failure-on-st-john-leads-to-call-for-protest-today/article_8c4ee7d3-7d9d-57ef-aef8-aeb2840960a3.html.

• This article discusses the widespread power outage on St. John caused by a failure in the V.I. Water and Power Authority’s (WAPA) underground transmission line, leaving 2,600 customers without electricity. It details the numerous issues facing WAPA, including disputes over payments for generators, budget constraints, and ongoing negotiations with energy providers. The article provides insights into the infrastructural and financial challenges plaguing the Virgin Islands’ utility services, as well as the public’s growing frustration, leading to calls for protest.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA Crisis Continues with Rolling Blackouts on St. Thomas.” Virgin Islands Daily News, May 28, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-crisis-continues-with-rolling-blackouts-on-st-thomas/article_c91aebf5-582a-5746-9598-991cb9c549d5.html.

• This article reports on the continuing crisis with the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA), focusing on a new round of rolling blackouts on St. Thomas that left thousands of customers without electricity. The piece details the factors leading to the blackouts, including ongoing maintenance failures, the utility’s debt issues, and the state of emergency declared by Governor Albert Bryan Jr. The report captures the widespread public

Buchanan, Don. “Virgin Islanders Urged to Rethink Coastal Development.” St. Croix Source, May 29, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/05/29/virgin-islanders-urged-to-rethink-coastal-development/.

• This article highlights a presentation by Gregory Guannel, director of the Caribbean Green Technology Center at the University of the Virgin Islands, and Rónadh Cox, a professor of geology and mineralogy. They discussed the significant impact of human activity on the territory’s coastlines, emphasizing the vulnerability of St. Croix. The article details how development along the coast exacerbates erosion, with specific examples such as the effects of the Hovensa refinery and the St. Thomas airport runway extension. Guannel urged Virgin Islanders to rethink coastal development, suggesting that natural beaches recover faster than developed ones. The presentation emphasized the need for sustainable coastal management in response to natural and man-made pressures.

Ellis, Susan. “Bryan Outlines Plans to Energize WAPA.” St. Croix Source, May 28, 2024. https://stcroixsource.com/2024/05/28/bryan-outlines-plans-to-energize-wapa/.

• This article details Governor Albert Bryan Jr.‘s efforts to address the ongoing financial and operational challenges of the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA). During a press conference, Bryan outlined a range of strategies, including resolving government debts to WAPA, negotiating with energy providers such as Wartsila and Vitol, and securing financing to purchase propane terminals and retire debt. The governor emphasized the role of the energy task force in addressing WAPA’s issues, including paying overdue bills, reducing fuel costs, and introducing new solar power facilities. The article provides insight into the complex financial situation of WAPA and the government’s plans to restore the utility’s stability.

June 2024

Academic Publications

Mass Media

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA Board Meets, Votes Out of View of the Public.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 3, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-board-meets-votes-out-of-view-of-the-public/article_49335bee-6468-5b09-9165-16ccc7d91554.html.

• This article recounts an emergency meeting held by the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA) board, where all discussions were conducted privately, frustrating the public who had anticipated updates on the power grid’s status. Following the extended executive session, board Secretary Juanita Young announced decisions to extend a settlement agreement with Vitol and to enter a reduced-cost fuel supply agreement, yielding significant monthly savings. The article also highlights Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s dissatisfaction with WAPA’s lack of public communication and his threat to make leadership changes if the utility’s issues persist.

MacAvoy, Kit. “In First Month, GERS Loan Program Distributes a Third of Its $20 Million Allotment.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 3, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/in-first-month-gers-loan-program-distributes-a-third-of-its-20-million-allotment/article_03892211-72f0-51a9-9fdd-226bd76d1f80.html.

• This article reports on the Government Employees Retirement System (GERS) in the U.S. Virgin Islands, which has distributed $6.2 million of its $20 million personal loan fund within the first month of the program’s relaunch. GERS Administrator Angel Dawson Jr. noted that 628 applicants were approved, while 197 were found ineligible, and shared that additional funds may soon be available for a second application round. Dawson also highlighted tenant arrears from public sector entities, expressing a need for timely rent and utility payments owed to GERS, including significant amounts from the Justice Department and Personnel Division.

MacAvoy, Kit. “UVI Expands Agricultural Research with New Facilities.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 3, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/uvi-expands-agricultural-research-with-new-facilities/article_8e448ddc-8bbc-5823-8477-70ddce1f63a6.html.

• This article highlights the University of the Virgin Islands’ (UVI) expansion of its agricultural research facilities on St. Croix with the inauguration of a new aquaponics center and a Small Ruminant Livestock Facility. The aquaponics facility integrates fish nurseries with soilless plant cultivation, utilizing nutrient-rich water from the fish to naturally fertilize the plants. Dr. Henry Awika, interim assistant director at UVI, explained the potential of locally sourced feed to address the high cost of imported fish feed, thereby making aquaponics more feasible for Virgin Islands farmers.

Burgher, Vernillia. “SEA: A Beacon of Conservation, Education for Nearly 40 Years.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 4, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/sea-a-beacon-of-conservation-education-for-nearly-40-years/article_d7be0ad9-3924-51ee-982a-d8df0e30ae7d.html.

• This article celebrates the St. Croix Environmental Association’s (SEA) nearly four-decade legacy of environmental conservation and education on St. Croix. Led by education coordinator Olivia Walton, SEA offers hands-on learning programs that aim to foster environmental stewardship, especially among the island’s youth. Through programs like “Environmental Change Makers,” teenagers participate in activities such as turtle patrols, coral lab volunteering, and educational snorkeling trips. These experiences blend ecological education with leadership development, culminating in projects that emphasize conservation topics such as coral restoration and environmental justice.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Embattled WAPA CEO Andrew Smith Resigns.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 4, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/embattled-wapa-ceo-andrew-smith-resigns/article_82856bd6-c62a-546f-b115-de4c2e1a3557.html.

• This article covers the resignation of Andrew Smith, CEO of the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA), amid ongoing struggles with power reliability and financial instability. Hired in 2022, Smith faced public dissatisfaction despite a three-year contract worth $325,000 annually, plus allowances. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. called a Public Finance Authority meeting to select a turnaround management firm to assess WAPA. Sen. Donna Frett-Gregory emphasized the need for transparency in the selection process, pointing to stalled efforts since Act No. 8471’s passage. Smith’s tenure included negotiating infrastructure acquisitions, but recent issues and executive resignations plagued his leadership.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Caneel Bay Meeting Tonight in Person and Online.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 5, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/caneel-bay-meeting-tonight-in-person-and-online/article_291d24b7-cf01-583a-9412-5c81f52ba9e9.html.

• This article announces a V.I. National Park meeting scheduled for 5:45 p.m. to discuss the final redevelopment plan for Caneel Bay. The meeting will take place at the Lind Point Resources Management and Science conference room and is accessible both in person and virtually via MS Teams. Park service staff will review the final plan as outlined in the Caneel Bay Findings of No Significant Impact (FONSI), which concluded the Environmental Assessment process earlier in 2023. Shuttle service from Cruz Bay Visitor Center to the meeting venue will be available at 5:30 p.m.

MacAvoy, Kit. “Large-Scale Health Fair in Full Swing Across Territory.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 5, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/large-scale-health-fair-in-full-swing-across-territory/article_20984843-efd4-5ec2-bac8-4738e8d66d1a.html.

• This article describes the USVI Wellness Fair, a week-long event providing free health services to Virgin Islanders, supported by a partnership between the U.S. Defense Department’s Innovative Readiness Training program and local agencies. The fair, which has already served over 900 patients, offers services such as dental and optometry care, medical screenings, mental wellness checks, and pediatric vaccinations across multiple sites. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tai Hunte-Ceasar encouraged early attendance due to the high demand for services, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Outages Continue, WAPA Loses Fight over Frozen Bank Account.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 5, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/outages-continue-wapa-loses-fight-over-frozen-bank-account/article_8b6a2390-922e-59c9-bb99-e82233a5d6d3.html.

• This article details the V.I. Water and Power Authority’s (WAPA) ongoing power outages and its recent legal loss over a frozen bank account. A federal judge in Puerto Rico ruled that WAPA’s $6.9 million account at FirstBank must remain frozen to settle debts with Power Rental Op Co. Amid persistent outages affecting thousands of St. Thomas and St. John residents, the WAPA board discussed the fragile state of the power grid and long-delayed repairs, highlighting the need for backup generators. The ruling underscores WAPA’s financial instability, worsened by unpaid vendor judgments and unfulfilled utility obligations.

MacAvoy, Kit. “Psychiatric Emergency Response Teams Get OK by Senate Committee amid Mental Health Update.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 6, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/psychiatric-emergency-response-teams-get-ok-by-senate-committee-amid-mental-health-update/article_6f8fe1de-f618-5958-92df-838af327e367.html.

• This article reports on the V.I. Senate Health Committee’s approval of a bill to establish Psychiatric Emergency Response Teams (PERT) for mobile mental health crisis intervention, alongside the implementation of the 9-8-8 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Bill sponsor Sen. Diane Capehart emphasized the need for mental health infrastructure. Testimonies from health officials, including former Schneider Hospital psychiatrist Dr. Laurie McCormick, highlighted the territory’s mental health crisis, stressing the lack of consistent psychiatric care and its consequences. Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s past initiatives to improve mental health services were discussed, though challenges remain in establishing adequate treatment facilities and community psychiatry services.

Carlson, Suzanne, and Kit MacAvoy. “PFA Hires Turnaround Management Company for WAPA amid Blackouts.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 6, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/pfa-hires-turnaround-management-company-for-wapa-amid-blackouts/article_4107b8d9-67f2-5f46-bcfe-7a2f7be11605.html.

• This article reports on the Public Finance Authority’s (PFA) selection of Ernst & Young to evaluate the struggling V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA) as the territory experiences widespread blackouts. Announced by Governor Albert Bryan Jr., the $450,000 contract aims to address critical infrastructure issues, including WAPA’s damaged transmission lines and financial instability. Bryan highlighted long-term plans, such as replacing St. Croix’s Richmond power plant and adding renewable energy capabilities, while acknowledging the years of deferred maintenance that have worsened WAPA’s current state. The move follows a legislative mandate for external management, reflecting bipartisan frustration with WAPA’s prolonged operational and financial challenges.

MacAvoy, Kit. “V.I. Capital Continues to Grapple with Ongoing Outages.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 7, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/v-i-capital-continues-to-grapple-with-ongoing-outages/article_1c7653e6-3f25-5624-a687-0912a009d441.html.

• This article details the ongoing power outages impacting St. Thomas and St. John due to a fault in an underground line that remains unresolved. Efforts to repair the line were hindered by adverse weather, highlighting both the advantages and vulnerabilities of underground infrastructure, which is generally weather-resistant but prone to complex, prolonged repairs. Amid these outages, the Federal Emergency Management Agency approved the replacement of the Richmond power plant on St. Croix and outdated units on St. Thomas, aiming to bolster the territory’s unreliable power infrastructure. WAPA CEO Andrew Smith, set to resign at the end of June, did not attend the related press briefing.

Virgin Islan Daily News “Health Commissioner Urges Parents to Vaccinate Children against Measles.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 11, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/health-commissioner-urges-parents-to-vaccinate-children-against-measles/article_07331e0d-7415-51c4-bdf4-094d62995485.html.

• This article reports on V.I. Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion’s call for parents to vaccinate their children against measles in light of rising cases in the U.S. and Caribbean. Encarnacion highlighted the territory’s low childhood vaccination rate, currently at 60%, and warned that the Virgin Islands could be impacted by the spread of measles. The Health Department’s “Be Wise, Immunize” campaign aims to promote vaccination as essential protection for children. Measles, a highly contagious airborne virus, poses severe risks, particularly for children under five, and can spread through proximity or shared spaces even after an infected person has left.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Protesters Demand Accountability from WAPA after Several Days of Rolling Blackouts.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 11, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/protesters-demand-accountability-from-wapa-after-several-days-of-rolling-blackouts/article_0cbcaecc-0c7a-5937-bafa-6498aeec5068.html.

• This article covers a public protest on St. Thomas against the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA) due to ongoing blackouts and long-standing issues with the utility’s mismanagement. About 40 residents gathered to voice frustration over unreliable power service and high costs. Several protesters recounted decades of power issues, and some called for household solar incentives to reduce dependence on WAPA. The protest followed nearly a week of rolling outages and underscored the utility’s infrastructure failures, which have persisted despite significant government funding. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. acknowledged the dire situation, emphasizing that WAPA’s bankruptcy is not an option due to the territory’s financial structure.

Carlson, Suzanne. “New STJ Waste-to-Energy Plant Expected Next Year.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 13, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/new-stj-waste-to-energy-plant-expected-next-year/article_a6dba0b5-1ac7-5bf1-b912-fb4c1cdd683a.html.

• This article outlines plans for a new waste-to-energy plant on St. John, anticipated to begin operations by late 2025. Developed by Advanced Sustainable Technologies (AST), the facility will use plasma gasification technology to convert waste into electricity with zero emissions. AST cofounder Hanan Levin emphasized the plant’s closed-loop process, claiming that “no waste goes out, only product.” The facility is expected to produce around 10 gigawatts of electricity per year and is designed to eliminate St. John’s need to ship waste to St. Thomas. The project, costing approximately $10 million, has secured financing and aims to finalize a power purchase agreement with WAPA soon.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Bryan Considering Paying WAPA’s Debt to Solar Company.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 13, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/bryan-considering-paying-wapa-s-debt-to-solar-company/article_ebcc55fc-4ad0-559d-a88f-f47b1f63318e.html.

• This article reports on Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s consideration of using government funds to address the V.I. Water and Power Authority’s (WAPA) unpaid $4 million debt to solar provider BMR Energy. Facing potential shutdowns of BMR’s solar farms, Bryan’s administration is exploring financial support to retain renewable energy providers, similar to prior interventions with other vendors. The blackouts, worsened by mechanical issues and WAPA’s reliance on fossil fuels, have fueled concerns over WAPA’s financial stability. PSC counsel Boyd Sprehn noted that VI Electron may also be exiting the market, jeopardizing plans for new renewable energy projects in the Virgin Islands.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Mediation in St. Croix Refinery Lawsuit to Start in September.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 13, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/mediation-in-st-croix-refinery-lawsuit-to-start-in-september/article_3cfb7bf6-9568-5d21-8f16-74c30fd2903c.html.

• This article reports on the upcoming mediation process for a class action lawsuit filed by St. Croix residents whose properties were contaminated by oil releases from refinery incidents in 2021. District Court Chief Judge Wilma Lewis ordered mediation to begin by September 15, 2024, with a preliminary trial date set for November 2026 if no settlement is reached. Following repeated environmental incidents, the refinery, initially owned by Limetree Bay and later acquired by Port Hamilton, was shut down. The plaintiffs seek compensation for damages and remediation of contamination. Ocean Point Terminals, formerly Limetree Bay Terminals, was held accountable for ensuring compliance with environmental regulations under a shared services agreement with the refinery.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Senators Still Considering Ethics Legislation.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 14, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/senators-still-considering-ethics-legislation/article_b3bec8ef-0792-55bd-9623-2c45ef8e2a38.html.

• This article examines the Virgin Islands Legislature’s ongoing delays in passing a comprehensive ethics bill aimed at preventing government corruption. Initially drafted in response to a corruption scandal involving former Sen. Alvin Williams Jr., the bill has languished since its introduction, with some senators citing concerns over its perceived “gotcha” intent. Former Sen. Janette Millin-Young emphasized the need for an Ethics Commission to promote accountability. Despite multiple corruption convictions of public officials over the past decade, Senate President Novelle Francis Jr. affirmed the urgent need for stronger ethical oversight to protect public funds and restore trust.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Bryan Requests Extension for WAPA State of Emergency.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 19, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/bryan-requests-extension-for-wapa-state-of-emergency/article_c14e88ab-1e55-5442-85e4-e840e1ba319f.html.

• This article details Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s request for a 90-day extension of the state of emergency declared over the V.I. Water and Power Authority’s (WAPA) ongoing power crisis. Initially declared in April, the emergency was prompted by WAPA’s unreliable power supply and its inability to maintain aging infrastructure. Despite the declaration, power outages persist across the territory, affecting thousands. Recent outages have been linked to damaged lines and infrastructure failures. The extension request allows the Legislature five days to act; otherwise, the emergency extends automatically for 30 days.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA Board Expected to Announce New CEO after Secret Vote.” Virgin Islands Daily News, June 28, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-board-expected-to-announce-new-ceo-after-secret-vote/article_dce4dcd9-5f47-5f87-be25-55e9daf41e81.html.

• This article details the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA) board’s secretive vote to potentially select Karl Knight, Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s chief of staff, as the next CEO. Amid longstanding infrastructure issues and a state of emergency declared over WAPA’s inconsistent power supply, outgoing CEO Andrew Smith is set to depart on June 30. Following the vote, the board approved additional funds to address delays in installing new Wartsila generators aimed at improving efficiency and reliability. The emergency has prompted legal and financial measures, including a pending appeal against an order freezing WAPA’s funds, which are needed to pay critical vendors and mitigate ongoing outages.

July 2024

Academic Publications

Mass Media

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA Failure Leaves STJ, STT, Water Island Without Power.” Virgin Islands Daily News, July 10, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-failure-leaves-stj-stt-water-island-without-power/article_24f761a8-3e55-11ef-9a24-4706b6043a7a.html.

• This article details a major blackout in St. Thomas, St. John, and Water Island caused by the failure of the V.I. Water and Power Authority’s largest generator, Unit 23. The report highlights the outage’s timeline, the steps taken for partial restoration, and the ongoing challenges of the Virgin Islands’ power grid, which has been in a state of emergency since April. It also underscores customer frustrations with WAPA’s long history of high rates and poor service, sparking renewed protests and calls for systemic reform.

Rezende, Elizabeth. “Our Cultural Institutions Need to Support Education.” Virgin Islands Daily News, July 12, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/opinion/our-cultural-institutions-need-to-support-education/article_4d06d36c-3f82-11ef-839a-0febbff68af0.html.

• This open letter advocates for stronger support of cultural and educational institutions in the Virgin Islands to enhance the teaching of V.I. history and culture. It critiques the lack of resources, funding, and staffing for libraries, museums, and cultural organizations, which undermines the quality of education. The author highlights specific shortcomings, such as the decline of the Whim Museum and reduced library hours, while emphasizing the need for collaboration, funding, and creative programming to engage students. The letter calls for a systemic effort to integrate cultural resources into classroom instruction to foster an enriched understanding of local history.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA Acknowledges Blackouts Continue Due to Fuel, Cash Shortages.” Virgin Islands Daily News, July 19, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-acknowledges-blackouts-continue-due-to-fuel-cash-shortages/article_3debcaf2-45ce-11ef-bbd8-2b78545a9599.html.

• This article investigates ongoing power outages in the St. Thomas-St. John district caused by mechanical failures, low diesel inventory, and financial difficulties at the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA). It describes the impact of rolling blackouts, including effects on vulnerable populations, and reports delays in fuel shipments and generator repairs. The piece highlights federal funding directed to WAPA, the broader state of emergency for the territory’s power grid, and government accountability issues, including Governor Bryan’s absence during the crisis. The article underscores systemic infrastructure problems and the urgency of financial and operational reforms.

Coto, Dánica. “US Announces $325 Million in Funding to Boost Puerto Rico Solar Projects as Outages Persist.” Virgin Islands Daily News, July 19, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/ap/us-announces-325-million-in-funding-to-boost-puerto-rico-solar-projects-as-outages-persist/article_78da1c02-453f-11ef-ad10-f70afe0f6adb.html.

• This article reports on the U.S. government’s allocation of $325 million to fund solar and battery storage installations in Puerto Rico, targeting critical facilities such as community centers, healthcare sites, and subsidized housing. It highlights the persistent power outages impacting the island, exacerbated by aging infrastructure and the legacy of Hurricane Maria, which devastated the grid in 2017. The report details efforts by Luma Energy to address equipment failures and the precarious state of transformers, alongside an announcement of an $861 million loan guarantee for new solar photovoltaic farms. The article also connects Puerto Rico’s energy crisis to broader regional challenges, referencing similar struggles in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Virgin Islands Daily News. “FEMA Announces $989 Million for STX Wastewater System.” Virgin Islands Daily News, July 22, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/fema-announces-989-million-for-stx-wastewater-system/article_efb2f7ba-47ae-11ef-bd47-eff051ba55bc.html.

• This article outlines FEMA’s commitment of $989 million to overhaul St. Croix’s wastewater infrastructure, including repairs to sewer lines and 14 key pump stations. The funding aims to create a more resilient and reliable system capable of withstanding future natural disasters. Statements from officials, including Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. and FEMA’s recovery director Kristen Hodge, emphasize the significance of the project for disaster preparedness and recovery. The report also places this investment within the broader context of FEMA’s $11.9 billion allocation for Virgin Islands recovery efforts since the 2017 hurricanes.

Carlson, Suzanne. “EHI Appealing Federal Judge’s Caneel Bay Ruling.” Virgin Islands Daily News, July 22, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/ehi-appealing-federal-judge-s-caneel-bay-ruling/article_c84ab806-47a5-11ef-9e2f-5beaff90302f.html.

• This article discusses the appeal by EHI Acquisitions to the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals regarding a federal judge’s ruling that the National Park Service owns the former Caneel Bay Resort property on St. John. The legal dispute stems from a 1956 agreement in which Laurance Rockefeller donated land for the Virgin Islands National Park while retaining use of Caneel Bay for private purposes, an arrangement that ended in 2023. The court ruled that Rockefeller’s intentions were philanthropic and ownership belongs to the Park Service. Meanwhile, the Park Service has begun preparing the site for public use, although the appeal raises questions about the continuation of this work.

Carlson, Suzanne, and Kit MacAvoy. “WAPA Blackouts Continue, Former AG Says Billing Errors Harming Elderly Customers.” Virgin Islands Daily News, July 30, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-blackouts-continue-former-ag-says-billing-errors-harming-elderly-customers/article_02802cf0-4e0d-11ef-afe5-373a093d4288.html

• This article highlights ongoing blackouts and billing issues at the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA), focusing on their disproportionate impact on elderly and vulnerable residents. It describes the case of Alfred J. Williams, a 100-year-old man whose electricity was mistakenly disconnected, raising concerns about WAPA’s operational and billing practices. The report also details broader systemic issues, including a lawsuit alleging faulty metering systems and overbilling, as well as the hospital and water supply challenges linked to WAPA outages. Efforts by the government and WAPA to address these crises, including the appointment of a new incident commander and outreach initiatives, are also discussed.

Virgin Islands Daily News. “WAPA: Can It Be Saved?” Virgin Islands Daily News, July 30, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/opinion/wapa-can-it-be-saved/article_f8fd8d98-4d27-11ef-9336-8791c8195f83.html.

• This editorial provides an in-depth examination of the V.I. Water and Power Authority’s (WAPA) 24-year history of systemic failures and mismanagement, culminating in the current state of emergency. It discusses past and present issues, including the controversial VITOL propane contract, employee resistance to privatization, and theft of services facilitated by WAPA personnel. The article also details Governor Bryan’s recent actions, such as appointing Karl Knight as the new CEO and hiring a turnaround company, alongside legislative efforts to mandate audits and reform. The piece concludes with an analysis of potential outcomes, including the role of an upcoming Inspector General’s audit in determining WAPA’s future.

August 2024

Academic Publications

Mass Media

Virgin Islands Daily News. “Health Dept. Urges Precautions as Dengue Outbreak Hits STT, STJ.” Virgin Islands Daily News, August 22, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/health-dept-urges-precautions-as-dengue-outbreak-hits-stt-stj/article_606883da-6028-11ef-a4bf-7b6e7a4437b2.html.

• The V.I. Health Department has reported 82 cases of dengue in the territory, with most cases concentrated in the St. Thomas-St. John District, and urged residents to take preventive measures. Officials emphasized removing standing water, using insect repellent, and repairing window screens to prevent mosquito breeding. The article discusses the symptoms of dengue, the risks of underreporting, and efforts to track infections through a newly launched data dashboard. Recommendations from the CDC and local health officials highlight best practices for minimizing mosquito bites and managing the disease.

 MacAvoy, Kit. “Federal Disaster Declaration Issued for V.I. as Post-Storm Restoration Continues.” Virgin Islands Daily News, August 20, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/federal-disaster-declaration-issued-for-v-i-as-post-storm-restoration-continues/article_794968d4-5e83-11ef-bb04-97bbba097368.html.

• This article outlines the federal disaster declaration issued for the U.S. Virgin Islands following Tropical Storm Ernesto, allowing FEMA to coordinate relief efforts and cover 75% of restoration costs. The report details progress in restoring power to nearly all customers and challenges like utility pole fires and vegetation management. Concerns about escalating electric bills during outages are raised, with calls for accountability from WAPA leadership. The declaration provides a framework for addressing storm-related damages but excludes certain federal emergency benefits for residents.

 Carlson, Suzanne. “Bovoni Landfill Temporarily Accepting Green Waste from Haulers.” Virgin Islands Daily News, August 20, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/bovoni-landfill-temporarily-accepting-green-waste-from-haulers/article_7cf40d16-5e8f-11ef-9633-9fd8ac83e524.html.

• The V.I. Waste Management Authority has temporarily reopened the Bovoni landfill on St. Thomas for commercial green waste disposal following Tropical Storm Ernesto. The landfill, which had stopped accepting green waste after a major fire in September, is now open on select days for debris drop-off. Officials acknowledge the urgent need for a long-term green waste management plan, especially on St. Thomas, where space is limited. Federal disaster aid may help address the issue, but no definitive solution has been announced.

 Virgin Islands Daily News. “EPA Recommends Denial of U.S. Army Corps Permit for Proposed Coral Bay Marina.” Virgin Islands Daily News, August 19, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/island_life/epa-recommends-denial-of-u-s-army-corp-permit-for-proposed-coral-bay-marina/article_b5984ece-6575-11ef-8e33-6b005292b03f.html.

• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recommended the denial of a permit for the proposed Coral Bay marina due to compliance issues with the Clean Water Act and potential harm to seagrass meadows. The EPA’s letter highlights concerns about the project’s adverse effects on aquatic resources of national importance and questions the feasibility of the proposed mitigation plans. The EPA also called for renewed public participation and public hearings due to sustained interest and environmental concerns. This marks a continuation of the agency’s opposition to the project since its original proposal in 2015.

Virgin Islands Daily News. “WAPA Reports Progress in Restoring Power Post-Storm.” Virgin Islands Daily News, August 19, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-reports-progress-in-restoring-power-post-storm/article_fc8febce-5dd3-11ef-897b-2f3a2851dd19.html.

• The V.I. Water and Power Authority reported that 97.3% of customers had power restored after Tropical Storm Ernesto, with crews addressing remaining outages and generation capacity issues. The restoration efforts involved multiple agencies and prioritized public services like schools. WAPA announced operational changes, including closing its Call Center, but encouraged customers to report outages to Customer Service during business hours.

Carlson, Suzanne. “PFA Approves $137M Contract for Disaster Recovery Project Management.” Virgin Islands Daily News, August 16, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/pfa-approves-137m-contract-for-disaster-recovery-project-management/article_7f0a5148-59c9-11ef-bede-e79687c6e913.html.

• The V.I. Public Finance Authority approved a $137 million contract with CH2M Hill, Inc., to manage disaster recovery projects under the “Rebuild USVI Super Project Management Office.” The article details efforts to streamline operations, attract larger contractors, and address delays in key projects, such as the Estate Donoe Redevelopment. The piece also highlights challenges in cost overruns and the need for additional federal funding to complete stalled housing projects.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA Blackouts Hit St. Thomas, St. John after Generator Failure.” Virgin Islands Daily News, August 13, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-blackouts-hit-st-thomas-st-john-after-generator-failure/article_83432954-590d-11ef-9f3d-7bc8c13374d0.html.

• A major generator failure at WAPA’s Randolph Harley power plant caused widespread blackouts in the St. Thomas-St. John district, affecting more than 21,000 customers. The article discusses recurring infrastructure problems, including maintenance delays, vegetation interference, and fuel shortages, as well as WAPA’s inability to meet customer demand. Efforts to repair the generator and implement a rotating outage schedule have offered limited relief as the territory remains in a state of emergency.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA CEO to Update PSC on Blackouts, State of Emergency.” Virgin Islands Daily News, August 12, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-ceo-to-update-psc-on-blackouts-state-of-emergency/article_5b151d7c-5843-11ef-9fad-7781a13e0d99.html.

• WAPA CEO Karl Knight was scheduled to address the Public Services Commission about the utility’s ongoing blackouts, irregular billing, and financial instability. The article highlights efforts to stabilize operations, including testing battery systems for new generators and improving communication through real-time updates. It also mentions ongoing legal battles, including a whistleblower lawsuit related to water quality concerns, as WAPA grapples with multiple crises under a declared state of emergency.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Court Orders Ocean Point to Continue Bottled Water Program.” Virgin Islands Daily News, August 9, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/court-orders-ocean-point-to-continue-bottled-water-program/article_2bfc0d84-55d7-11ef-b8a7-3f1c1953525f.html.

• The U.S. 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Ocean Point Terminals must continue providing bottled water to residents affected by the 2021 St. Croix refinery oil spills. The court reaffirmed a lower court’s decision that the refinery’s operations, despite technical separation from Ocean Point, violated the Clean Air Act, leading to contamination of residential cisterns. The article highlights the legal challenges stemming from the refinery’s environmental impacts and ongoing class-action lawsuits.

MacAvoy, Kit. “Court Issues Entry of Default Against WAPA, Senior Staff in Wrongful Discharge Suit.” Virgin Islands Daily News, August 8, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/court-issues-entry-of-default-against-wapa-senior-staff-in-wrongful-discharge-suit/article_9e7789dc-5510-11ef-817e-b3a8050506a4.html.

• A default judgment was entered against the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA) and senior staff for failing to respond to a wrongful discharge lawsuit filed by former laboratory supervisor Carl Potter Jr. Potter alleged widespread deficiencies in WAPA’s water testing and compliance practices and claimed retaliation for raising concerns. The article outlines the legal proceedings, including allegations of mismanagement and unprofessional responses from WAPA leadership.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA Blackouts Blamed on Weather, Overgrown Trees.” Virgin Islands Daily News, August 2, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-blackouts-blamed-on-weather-overgrown-trees/article_511335c0-50d2-11ef-b63e-f79e7883490e.html.

• Heavy rains and vegetation interference were cited as causes of blackouts affecting the Virgin Islands. The article details infrastructure issues, including overgrown trees near power lines and aging generators prone to failures. The piece underscores the continued state of emergency over WAPA’s inability to provide reliable power, as well as the challenges faced by customers, including inadequate communication during outages.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA Says It’s ‘Cautiously Optimistic’ That Blackouts Will End Friday.” Virgin Islands Daily News, August 1, 2024. https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-says-its-cautiously-optimistic-that-blackouts-will-end-friday/article_0672ebb0-4fa5-11ef-96ec-1f818642fb6c.html.

• WAPA announced efforts to address ongoing blackouts in the St. Thomas-St. John district caused by generator failures and insufficient capacity. The utility is commissioning new fuel-efficient generators and implementing a battery system to stabilize power supply. The article highlights the persistent challenges with outdated infrastructure and summer demand spikes, compounded by delays in federal funding for temporary generation solutions.

September 2024

Academic Publications

Forde, Martin S., Adrian Cashman, and Kerry Mitchell. “Sustainability of water resources in Caribbean small island developing states: an overview.” Discover Sustainability 5, no. 1 (2024): 265.

• A key to achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals is the sustainable provisioning of clean water and sanitation services. The sustainable management of water resources strengthens resilience, protects livelihoods, fosters economic growth, and contributes to poverty reduction. This paper reviews the challenges faced by Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) with a focus on water resource management. While the Caribbean region is seemingly blessed with water resources, with more than 90% of Caribbean residents having access to improved water, it faces challenges due to inefficient management and diverse geographical realities, creating spatial disparities. Furthermore, economic and physical scarcity coexist with some islands lacking proper infrastructure and others nearing the exhaustion of natural freshwater reserves. Climate change intensifies these issues through variable precipitation patterns and extreme weather events. Additionally, the region’s dependence on tourism and susceptibility to environmental pressures necessitates a focus on targets related to SDGs 1 and 8. To address increasing water stress within the region, it is becoming increasingly urgent to identify root causes and develop targeted solutions that consider socioeconomic and environmental factors. The promotion of Integrated Water Resource Management is a key strategy for encouraging increased investment in climate-resilient infrastructure and fostering sustainable financing practices.

Mass Media

MacAvoy, Kit. “Disaster Recovery Office Says V.I. Gov’t Met FEMA Deadline for Fixed Cost Offers.” Virgin Islands Daily News, September 30, 2024.https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/disaster-recovery-office-says-v-i-govt-met-fema-deadline-for-fixed-cost-offers/article_0d18355e-7ebe-11ef-a7df-3fcebee2a294.html

• This article provides a detailed overview of how the Virgin Islands met FEMA’s September 30 deadline for the 428 Public Assistance program, which funds disaster recovery projects. It highlights the retroactive increase in federal funding for key infrastructure projects, such as schools and hospitals, with a 98% cost share for certain critical projects. The article also emphasizes the collaborative efforts of FEMA and local agencies to finalize all fixed-cost offers for 241 projects, showcasing how the program enables facilities to be rebuilt to higher industry standards. The piece underscores the importance of this milestone in enhancing the territory’s disaster resilience.

MacAvoy, Kit. “Recovery Office Seeks Company to Manage Lumber, Addresses Contractor Concerns.” Virgin Islands Daily News, September 23, 2024.https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/recovery-office-seeks-company-to-manage-lumber-addresses-contractor-concerns/article_0256494c-7844-11ef-aff6-3380b8d2c566.html

• This article explores the operational challenges within the EnVIsion Tomorrow program, a key initiative aimed at repairing storm-damaged homes in the Virgin Islands. It discusses delays in contractor payments and the launch of a Request for Proposals (RFP) to improve the management of construction materials through warehouse services. By providing specific details about the RFP scope and addressing concerns over vendor payments, the piece highlights the ongoing struggles to implement effective recovery efforts. The article reflects the complexities of balancing financial oversight with community demands for faster disaster recovery.

Greenaway, Dean. “BVI Health Services Authority Chairman Ignores Call for Resignation.” Virgin Islands Daily News,September 16, 2024.https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/bvi-health-services-authority-chairman-ignores-call-for-resignation/article_6f06f50a-73a3-11ef-8fe3-83c6910e3e36.html

• This piece examines the refusal of Ron Potter, Chairman of the BVI Health Services Authority, to resign amidst healthcare controversies and public outcry. The article delves into governance challenges, including strained relationships between Potter and government officials, and allegations of blocking medical school proposals. It also highlights the broader context of healthcare system inefficiencies and funding shortages. By framing Potter’s stance within legal and structural constraints, the article sheds light on the tensions between accountability and leadership autonomy in the Virgin Islands’ public health sector.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA Customers Suffer Through More Rolling Blackouts.” Virgin Islands Daily News, September 16, 2024.https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapa-customers-suffer-through-more-rolling-blackouts/article_9344b71a-73b5-11ef-be3e-eb6a7c6f3387.html

• This article addresses the persistence of rolling blackouts across the Virgin Islands due to fuel shortages and infrastructure challenges faced by the Water and Power Authority (WAPA). The piece captures community frustrations with unreliable electricity and the financial struggles hindering WAPA’s ability to maintain adequate fuel supplies. By detailing the resignation of the previous CEO and ongoing power grid instability, the article contextualizes the systemic issues contributing to the island’s energy crisis and the broader implications for residents and businesses.

MacAvoy, Kit. “Education Officials Weather Questions on Maintenance, Reporting of Abuse.” Virgin Islands Daily News,September 10, 2024.https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/education-officials-weather-questions-on-maintenance-reporting-of-abuse/article_221fa3e6-6f1a-11ef-bd17-73e85a5cb774.html

• This report examines the Virgin Islands Education Department’s challenges with school maintenance and abuse reporting following a student injury caused by poor infrastructure. The article recounts a Senate hearing where officials faced tough questioning on issues like mold, pest infestations, and insufficient staff. It also addresses systemic failures in responding to reports of child abuse, particularly in light of high-profile cases of sexual misconduct. The article provides a comprehensive look at the intersection of safety, accountability, and resource allocation in the education system.

Carlson, Suzanne. “WAPA’s Failure to Buy Enough Diesel Prolongs Rolling Blackouts for Residents.” Virgin Islands Daily News, September 9, 2024.https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/wapas-failure-to-buy-enough-diesel-prolongs-rolling-blackouts-for-residents/article_de3e3748-6e31-11ef-bc78-0bf7f42a6b4f.html

• This article delves into the energy crisis plaguing the Virgin Islands, highlighting WAPA’s inability to secure sufficient diesel to meet demand. It discusses the operational and financial mismanagement that has led to widespread outages, affecting residents’ quality of life and economic stability. The piece also notes efforts to stabilize the power grid through new generator installations, reflecting the slow pace of recovery amid growing public dissatisfaction with WAPA’s leadership.

Carlson, Suzanne. “Rolling Blackouts Continue as WAPA Says It Has Run Low on Fuel.” Virgin Islands Daily News,September 4, 2024.https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/rolling-blackouts-continue-as-wapa-says-it-has-run-low-on-fuel/article_f0bdd162-6a4e-11ef-9cda-f7a1bce02293.html

• This piece explores the ongoing blackouts in the Virgin Islands caused by WAPA’s diesel shortage. It examines the operational failures behind these outages, including fuel mismanagement and billing inaccuracies, while capturing the community’s outrage over the lack of transparency and accountability. By detailing the impacts of unreliable electricity on daily life, the article highlights the pressing need for systemic reforms in the territory’s power infrastructure.

Virgin Islands Daily News Staff. “FEMA Calls for Vigilance During Peak Activity of Hurricane Season.” Virgin Islands Daily News, September 4, 2024.https://www.virginislandsdailynews.com/news/fema-calls-for-vigilance-during-peak-activity-of-hurricane-season/article_10aa08a8-6a2a-11ef-9b40-b7d5ba1837c2.html

• This report emphasizes FEMA’s call for disaster preparedness during the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. It provides actionable guidance for residents, such as creating emergency kits, developing family plans, and securing property. The article underscores the importance of community readiness and resilience, particularly in light of past storms and the ongoing need for self-sufficiency during natural disasters.

October 2024

Academic Publications

Mass Media

November 2024

Academic Publications

Soutullo, Silvia, Jose Antonio Ferrer, Oscar Seco, Helena López, Maria Nuria Sánchez, Mario Jorge Vitale, Alba Liony Reyes, Erica Norma Correa, and Lara De Diego. “Sustainable transformation in the Latin American and Caribbean districts through the implementation of a qualitative methodology. Challenges and key aspects to be addressed.” Journal of Cleaner Production 472 (2024): 143336.

• Governance generally, and appropriate operational institutions specifically, are said to be crucial to increasing human adaptive capacity amidst environmental change. But existing conceptualizations tend to assume a universal model of governance will work for states of all sizes. This article questions this orthodoxy which disregards the lack of clarity on size-relevant institutional design and functioning. We do so by focusing on the role of governance in the adaptive capacity of small island developing states (SIDS) facing a new marine social-ecological threat. We draw on a unique dataset of capacity self-assessments undertaken by thirty-eight key agencies involved in the management of sargassum seaweed influx events in the Eastern Caribbean. We found support for the findings of public administration scholars who show that country size is a contextual factor affecting adaptive capacity beyond the control of managers. The implication is that the ability of SIDS to adapt to new or emergent environmental change is crucially inhibited by size-related governance constraints while solutions that mitigate these effects – informal networks and regional organizations – are not well captured by existing metrics. To ensure assessments of adaptive capacity are contextually appropriate we need a more nuanced appreciation of the impacts of state size on governance outcomes.