The Senate Rules and Judiciary Committee approved three gubernatorial nominees Tuesday — including Vincent L. Roberts for commissioner of the Sports, Parks, and Recreation Department — and voted to hold two legislative proposals for further review.
Chaired by Sen. Carla J. Joseph, the committee met to consider a full agenda of nominations and bills. Senators voted in favor of all executive appointments under consideration and referred them to the full Legislature. Measures to establish a Commission on Ethics and to raise container import fees, however, were held in committee for additional clarification.
“Today’s nominees reflect a well-rounded blend of public service, private-sector experience, and community engagement,” Joseph said during the hearing. She praised Roberts for his institutional knowledge and “strategic focus on transparency, infrastructure, and community engagement.”
Roberts, who has served as assistant commissioner of DSPR since 2019, brings more than 18 years of public sector experience and 15 years in the private sector. He testified to his commitment to transparency, inclusive programming, and enhancing access to recreational facilities across the territory. His priorities include a Capital Improvement Plan focused on safety, ADA compliance, and beautification, along with the construction of gymnasiums in both districts.
Roberts also outlined initiatives to increase sports tourism, improve public safety at DSPR sites, and generate revenue through revised rental fees and sponsorships. He highlighted plans to elevate workforce training, boost staff morale, and expand community outreach through town halls, targeted marketing, and a redesigned website.
Responding to a question from Joseph about the department’s long-term vision, Roberts said he intends for DSPR to become “a recognized leader in health, wellness, and community engagement.”
Also approved was Erwin Raphael, nominated to serve on the board of directors for the UVI Research and Technology Park. Raphael, who has experience in innovation and economic development, presented a vision focused on clarifying RTPark’s mission, supporting local entrepreneurship through an incubator, and strengthening ties with the University of the Virgin Islands.
Chantelle Greene Quiñones, nominee to the Virgin Islands Historic Preservation Commission, was likewise approved. A lifelong Frederiksted resident with a background in education and communications, Quiñones said she is committed to balancing progressive development in historic districts with the preservation of architectural and cultural heritage. If confirmed, she pledged to enhance public awareness and assist property owners in navigating preservation efforts.
Lawmakers voted to hold in committee Bill No. 36-0077, introduced by Sen. Kenneth L. Gittens, which proposes the creation of a Virgin Islands Commission on Ethics and Conflicts of Interest. While Assistant Attorney General Jeremy Weddle expressed support for the commission’s concept, he raised concerns about the bill’s vague provisions, particularly regarding undefined staffing and the Justice Department’s unspecified obligations. Cindy L. Richardson, director of the Division of Personnel, also flagged issues related to unclear authority, procedures, and the absence of a defined mission.
Joseph added her own reservations, pointing to the lack of due process protections and mechanisms for appeal.
The committee also held Bill No. 36-0039, sponsored by Sen. Angel L. Bolques Jr., which proposes raising fees on containers and flat rack containers imported into the Virgin Islands. Lawmakers said the measure requires further examination before moving forward.
Committee members present for the hearing included Sens. Carla J. Joseph, Kenneth L. Gittens, Angel L. Bolques Jr., Alma Francis Heyliger, Clifford A. Joseph Sr., and Avery L. Lewis.