Town Halls Scheduled to Discuss Governor’s Plan for Abandoned and Derelict Properties

Government House communications Director Richard Motta announced upcoming public meetings to discuss Gov. Albert Bryan Jr.’s proposed legislation to deal with abandoned and derelict properties in the Virgin Islands Monday at the governor’s regularly scheduled media briefing.

On St. Thomas, the town hall meeting will be Aug. 28 at 6 p.m. at Charlotte Amalie High School auditorium and on St. Croix, the location will be St. Croix Educational Complex auditorium Aug. 30 at 6 p.m.

“I encourage the community to come out and participate in the discussion on how, collectively, we can address this long-standing issue,” Motta said.

Basically, the governor wants courts to appoint a conservator or receiver to oversee the renovation and development of the neglected property. The homeowner would not lose ownership at any time, and eventually, after the receiver recoups a return on the investment, the owner again takes possession of the property. Motta said the legislation has been drafted but will not be submitted until after public input.