Dear Source:
I have been hearing this phrase often: "Create prosperity, not poverty!" The citizens of St. Croix are eager for job opportunities and wonder when the Hovensa stalemate will cease. Since the 30th Legislature rejected the Fourth Amendment Agreement, the process of selling the Hovensa oil refinery has been stymied. Our economic situation has worsened, yet senators appear not to be bothered about the escalating cost of living.
One does not need to possess a master degree in economics to see the domino effect of the closure of the oil refinery. Senators were quick to reject the Hovensa deal, but they have prolonged developing a plan that would stimulate economic activities on St. Croix. How long must the people endure abject poverty?
Hundreds of jobs were lost due to the closure of the oil refinery. Hovensa made it clear that it is never going to refine oil. Despite the hike in electric rates, increasing debts of the hospitals and threat of GERS going bankrupt, none of the senators has propose a Plan B that could create prosperity.
Instead of focusing on revenue generating measures, some senators have been busy drafting frivolous bills that do not solve our energy crisis or fiscal problems. For example, senators approved of a legislation to make Julie mango the fruit of choice and another to designate the Virgin Islands as the bush tea capital of the world. Some want to see marijuana legal and others wish for reparation from Denmark. How about ratifying the Fourth Amendment Agreement so that a new owner of the Hovensa facility could hire thousands of workers?
Will senators delay the decision to reconsider the Fourth Amendment Agreement? They have been given clarifications on the language in the document and a hearing on the matter has been scheduled for Wednesday, October 23. A letter by Attorney George Dudley confirms that senators’ concerns pertaining to the terms of the deal have been addressed. The short letter that was printed in the newspaper is easy to read and comprehend. Why would the Legislature’s legal counsel and senators need more than an hour to digest the content of this letter?
Senators, please ratify the Fourth Amendment Agreement. Create prosperity, not poverty!
Sincerely,
Verdel L. Petersen, St. Croix
