Ana Cresencia Tavares Payamps, owner of a local food truck, is seeking a rezoning from R-3 to B-1 to allow for a mixed-use building with a bar, restaurant, and three efficiency apartments in Estate Richmond, Company Quarter on St. Croix. The request, filed under CCZP0066-25, was the subject of a virtual public hearing Tuesday hosted by the Comprehensive and Coastal Zone Planning Division.
Carlos Reyes spoke on behalf of Tavares Payamps.
According to Reyes, the building was previously known as the “Bobby Thomas Building” and operated as a sports shop selling fishing equipment.
Leia LaPlace, serving as facilitator, guided the discussion and asked questions about flooding, drainage, and how construction might affect the surrounding area. She also inquired about the facility’s long-term use, specifically whether it would be utilized as a rental property and what type of apartment it would contain.
“We want to ensure that all potential issues with the site are addressed before moving forward and understand how the property will be used over time,” LaPlace said. Reyes responded that the facility is planned as a long-term rental. He also mentioned that business hours for the bar and restaurant are not finalized, but Reyes said it would likely open in the morning for breakfast and in the evening for dinner.
Reyes acknowledged that newcomers sometimes face cultural and regulatory adjustments, but emphasized the importance of dialogue over conflict. “They make immigrants who come here, and they’re trying to make the best of the American dream, which sometimes becomes a nightmare. But the rest is up to them,” he said.
He stressed that property ownership comes with responsibility. “You have to understand that they have a right also. They buy a piece of land and they’re going to have to do something about it. You cannot buy a piece of land and just leave it full of grass,” he explained.
Drawing on history, Reyes pointed to earlier generations who helped build the Virgin Islands community “piece by piece, brick by brick.” He added, “Especially when you talk about people from Vieques, they used to develop a lot of businesses in St. Croix. Now they’re gone, but I hope this is what they’re trying to do — leave something for the family, for the future of their sons and daughters.”
Lisa Thomas, a community member, raised concerns about pests, specifically rats, as well as parking and the importance of the property owner getting to know other residents to maintain neighborhood harmony. Her questions reflected the community’s interest in safety, health, and strong neighborly relations.
Reyes responded, noting that property owners have a responsibility to maintain their land and engage with the community. “If they’re going to be building there, they’re going to have to clean it. Either this building or a house, they’re going to have to comply with the surrounding area,” he said. He added that compliance with proper maintenance standards is crucial for preventing problems such as pests and that positive relationships with neighbors are essential for long-term community cohesion. Reyes also confirmed he would relay these concerns to the applicant to ensure they are addressed.
Planning representative Keshoi Samuel reminded the public that comments will be accepted until Sept. 25. A recommendation report will be prepared after that date, which could recommend approval, modification, or denial of the applicant’s request. Comments should be emailed to leia.laplace@dpnr.vi.gov.