New applicants for Tourism commissioner are being interviewed by Gov. Charles W. Turnbull this week, and a decision is expected "early next week," according to Government House spokesman Lee Vanterpool.
Though Government House was not releasing any names of prospective candidates, Richard Doumeng, president of the St. Thomas-St. John Hotel and Tourism Association, had some ideas.
Asked his opinion of Eric Dawson, a name that has been suggested for the post, Doumeng said, "We would welcome him with open arms." Dawson, an ex-senator, served as economic development commissioner under Gov. Alexander Farrelly when tourism came under that department.
Doumeng also said, "As far as I know, no hotelier has been consulted for ideas or suggestions about filling the position." He added that the private sector has always been willing to offer the governor its expertise, an offer that has so far gone begging.
Finding and keeping a Tourism commissioner has been a major cause for concern in the territory since the Turnbull-James administration took office last year.
Turnbull first nominated Clement "Cain" Magras, whose permanent appointment was rejected by the Legislature. At that point Monique Sibilly Hodge, who was assistant commissioner, became acting commissioner.
Turnbull then filled the top position with local businessman Michael Bornn, and Hodge again became assistant commissioner. After two months in the new position, and before he had a chance to be confirmed by the Legislature, Bornn was fired by Turnbull because of personal differences.
Hodge was reappointed acting commissioner, and that appointment ran out last Wednesday. The governor is required by law to fill a post within 90 days. Vanterpool said her tenure in the position "depends on which scenario you are following." Hodge is on record as saying she does not want the top job.
Turnbull is also interviewing candidates to fill the boards of the Industrial Development Commission, Port Authority and Public Service Commission, Vanterpool said. The Tourism commissioner is chairman of the Port Authority board and the IDC board. The IDC board is now down to one member, Claudette Farrington, Internal Revenue director, since Sibilly's time has run out. All other board members' terms have expired.
Vanterpool said he hoped to have announcements for the board posts early next week.
