Portion of Water Island, USVI. Photo Credit: V.I. CONSORTIUM.
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. on Thursday announced the appointment of Colette Monroe as Water Island Administrator, selecting a longtime Water Island resident and veteran public servant to serve as the on-island point of contact for residents and government agencies.
The appointment marks a shift in how Water Island is represented within the St. Thomas–St. John District, which is overseen by Shikima Jones Sprauve on St. John. Prior to Monroe’s appointment, St. Thomas and Water Island were represented by Acting Administrator Kevin Rodriguez. Governor Bryan said naming a dedicated Water Island administrator is intended to strengthen day-to-day coordination, improve responsiveness, and ensure resident concerns are followed through in a timely manner, while maintaining close collaboration among district administrators.
Monroe is widely known within the community for her long-standing advocacy on issues affecting Water Island and the broader Virgin Islands. She brings extensive institutional knowledge from her service as a policy advisor at Government House, where she worked across three administrations, supporting the leadership of John P. deJongh Jr., Kenneth E. Mapp, and Governor Bryan through major initiatives and complex challenges.
Governor Bryan said the role of Water Island Administrator is centered on service delivery and responsiveness. He emphasized that the position focuses on improving communication, coordinating with government agencies, and helping residents move issues from initial report to resolution. According to the governor, Monroe’s experience and understanding of how government functions will strengthen follow-through on the matters residents raise.
In her new role, Monroe will serve as the primary on-island liaison for residents, community organizations, and government agencies. Her responsibilities will include regular community engagement, tracking issues, following up with relevant agencies, and coordinating closely with the St. Thomas–St. John District administration team to ensure concerns are addressed through coordinated action.
Monroe said she is grateful for the opportunity to serve Water Island and committed to practical, consistent work that reflects the needs of the community. She said she looks forward to working with residents and government partners to improve quality of life and keep progress moving.
Governor Bryan said the appointment reflects his administration’s broader focus on strengthening neighborhood-level responsiveness throughout the territory. He added that effective government is measured by accessibility, follow-through, and results that residents can see.
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