The Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) held a virtual public zoning hearing Tuesday to consider a use variance request submitted by Daphne Jean Marie for R-2 (Residential-Low Density-One and Two Family) zoned Plot No. 104 Estate Concordia, Westend Quarter, St. Croix. Jean Marie is seeking approval to operate a small, home-based beauty salon on her residential property.
The hearing was chaired by Gail Pagan, planning technician in the Division of Comprehensive and Coastal Zone Planning. Territorial Planner Leia LaPlace Matthew and Planning Technician Keshoi Samuel also participated, along with Ray Clarke from the Office of the Governor.
During the hearing, LaPlace Matthew reviewed key details of the proposal with the applicant, confirming that the property contains two residential structures and that the salon would be operated solely by the owner.
“This is for self-use, so you wouldn’t be leasing the space to anyone,” LaPlace Matthew said while clarifying the scope of the request.
Jean Marie confirmed that the property has sufficient infrastructure to support the proposed use, including existing cistern and on-site parking.
“We have parking inside the yard — more than six or seven vehicles,” she said.
Landscaping was also discussed, with the applicant noting that trees are already in place to provide separation from neighboring properties. “Yes, we have trees on the south area,” Jean Marie said.
LaPlace emphasized that these details were important for public transparency, particularly for nearby residents who may review the recorded hearing.
“I want to make sure that if anyone views the recording — any neighbor — it’s clear what you’re proposing,” LaPlace Matthew said.
No questions or concerns were raised by DPNR staff following the discussion.
In her closing statement, Jean Marie explained that the request is part of a personal and professional transition.
“This is just in order to downsize and to work for myself in a less tense area and have a more private place for the customers,” she said.
She added that approval of the variance would allow her to move forward legally. “We’re requesting the use variance to accomplish these goals legally,” Jean Marie said.
Jean Marie said that the construction will take up to six or seven months.
Pagan announced that the public comment period will remain open until Friday, Feb. 6.
“The recommendation report could state approval, modification or denial of the applicant’s request,” Pagan said.
