Bryan Meets With Water Island Residents Via Zoom, Promises to Address Multiple Concerns

ST. THOMAS — Government House announced Thursday night that Governor Albert Bryan and representatives from seven agencies of the government of the Virgin Islands participated Wednesday night in a virtual Town Hall meeting with about 50 Water Island residents to hear their concerns, answer questions and provide solutions to issues they raised.

The online forum was conducted via Zoom and organized and hosted by St. Thomas-Water Island Administrator Avery Lewis, who introduced the participants emceed the event.

Water Island Resident David Roselle, who also is the president of the Water Island Civic Association (WICA), introduced the residents to the governor and led off the questions to ask about the Mr. Bryan's short- and long-term vision for the island, according to Gov't House.

Governor Bryan said he is committed to investing in the territory’s people, infrastructure and future, and for Water Islanders he has a number of primary concerns including:

Increasing the GVI’s digital reach to provide government services without having to replicate offices on all islands.

The Hotel-Marina project, which he said will transform Water Island.

Protecting residents from escalating land prices and property taxes as Water Island is further developed.

Increasing moorings while ensuring adequate anchoring for residents.

Cleaning out the sunken vessels from the lagoon area.

Enhancing Honeymoon Beach access for tourists while maintaining safe and secure access for residents.

Other residents asked a variety of questions and raised several issues, including about WAPA reliability; Internet connectivity; landing spaces for residents’ boats on St. Thomas; road repairs; upgrading the commuter dock; how police respond to emergencies; repairs to the fire station; fixing up Fort Segarra for tourist visits; and charter boats playing loud music until late at night, the release stated.