Mapp Vetoes Bin Site Surveillance Bill; Approves More Funding For Paul E. Joseph Stadium Among Other Actions

ST. THOMAS — Governor Kenneth Mapp has vetoed an appropriation that would have funded surveillance cameras at selected trash bin sites, and recommends instead that the Anti-Litter and Beautification funds be used by the Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority to construct new trash convenience centers to replace more of the unsightly bins currently in use, according to a Government House release issued late Thursday.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Marvin Blyden, received backlash from residents, who said that there were more important issues at hand, and that the surveillance effort would only cause residents to dispose of their trash illegally.

The governor approved an act appropriating not more than $480,000 to purchase land required for Phase II of the Frederiksted Revitalization project, land Mr. Mapp said was needed to complete the Paul E. Joseph Stadium. Mr. Mapp advised the Legislature that the government is in negotiations with the owners, and is prepared to begin eminent domain proceedings if a purchase agreement cannot be reached within the next ten days.

The governor also has approved an amendment to the Virgin Islands Code pertaining to the length of time a person may be detained to undergo mental health treatment.  The measure adds a “need for treatment” standard for involuntary commitment, and requires that a licensed medical practitioner determine the length of time required for a patient’s stabilization. The amended law also eliminates the five-day minimum ‘emergency commitment’ holding period.  That mandate, the governor stated, “may place individuals who require a lesser period for stabilization as determined by a licensed medical practitioner to remain committed” in order to adhere to the law.

The territory’s leader has signed into law an act repealing a section of the VI Code and adding a new chapter entitled “The Virgin Islands Insurance Holding Company System Regulatory Act”.  He states that it brings the territory into compliance with the accreditation standards established by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, and puts local insurance laws on par with other United States jurisdictions.  The measure also provides more effective protection to policyholders in the Virgin Islands, he added.

Two lease agreements have been approved between the government and Island Green Building Association, Inc.; and between the government and Cruzan Organix, Farm, Inc.  Also approved was the establishment of September as Virgin Islands Prostate and Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, with the requirement of an annual proclamation by the governor.

In his letter advising Senate President Myron Jackson of his actions on the various bills, Mr. Mapp also thanked the Legislature for its continued work on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands.