V.I. Delegate Stacey Plaskett has this week requested a meeting with Hess Corporation Chief Executive Officer John Hess regarding the company’s plans, proposals and processes with respect to the refinery in St. Croix and its relationship with the government of the Virgin Islands, according to her office.
In the two-page letter to Hess, Plaskett said she sought the company’s perspective on the refinery’s closure, as well as how Hess Corp. came to the conclusion that it was no longer profitable, before ultimately making the decision to close the refinery in 2012. Plaskett also asked about the company’s present plans along with its commitment to other obligations.
“Getting a complete understanding of the factors surrounding the refinery closure is important not only in determining next-steps for the property economically and environmentally, but also to ensure Hess abides by its commitments to the people of the Virgin Islands," Plaskett said in a statement.
"While I understand that there is ongoing litigation between Hess and the government of the Virgin Islands, a holistic understanding of these issues will give us better insight in our action to fill the economic void caused by the refinery’s closure,” Plaskett said.