Oct. 29, 2004 – Adding to the groundswell of community-based groups developing initiatives to improve the quality of life in St. Croix, the St. Croix Chamber of Commerce joined seven other activist groups to form Team St. Croix. Their collaborative objective is improving the business climate. They are targeting the senators as the vehicle for change.
Samuel J. Baptiste, vice president of the St. Croix Chamber of Commerce, called the groups together Thursday at Villa Morales Restaurant. Baptiste said the business community of St. Croix needs to unite and take a proactive stance to turn around the sagging economy of St. Croix.
According to a press release from the Chamber, the newly formed coalition is requesting all 25 candidates vying for a seat to represent St. Croix in the 26th Legislature "sign a contract" stating they will work on behalf of St. Croix. The release sets a deadline of Nov. 1 for candidates to sign the contract.
Following the election, successful candidates will be asked to work with Team St. Croix to develop and complete a two-year St. Croix agenda.
Attending the meeting were representatives of the St. Croix Anti-Crime Task Force, CHANT, Our Town Frederiksted, Frederiksted Economic Development Association, Christiansted Retail Association, St. Croix Hotel and Tourism Association and the USVI Coalition for Sustainable Economic Development, Inc.
Earlier this month, chamber members participated in a survey expressing their views on the economy and the business climate on St. Croix. (See "Chamber Members Give Government Low Ratings").
The St. Croix Anti Crime Task Force is putting its efforts toward crime prevention and safety. (See "Horses Could Help in Island's Fight Against Crime"). and (See "Guardian Angels Could Help St. Croix Fight Crime" ).
Candidates may obtain copies of this agreement at the office of Our Town Frederiksted at 3-C Strand Street in Frederiksted and at the St. Croix Chamber of Commerce Office in Orange Grove, Christiansted. Contact Samuel Baptiste, vice president, St.Croix Chamber of Commerce at 713-1435 or Hortense Rowe, executive director, Coalition for Sustainable Economic Development, Inc. at 690-8132 for more information.
Back Talk
Share your reaction to this news with other Source readers. Please include headline, your name and city and state/country or island where you reside.
Publisher's note: Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much–and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice… click here.
