U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — During his weekly press briefing on Monday, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. called attention to critical legislative measures under active deliberation by the 36th Legislature—most notably, an appropriation to pay long-overdue retroactive wages to government employees and an appropriation to support a settlement agreement with Pafford Medical Services.
Speaking from Government House earlier in the day, the Governor emphasized the significance of both actions, stating, “Today is about celebrating leadership and the important choices it requires. Leadership means having the vision and courage to tackle difficult issues head-on, prioritizing the immediate and urgent needs of our community above all else.”
The Governor expressed his appreciation to lawmakers for considering the reappropriation of $22 million from funds originally allocated to the proposed Nazareth sports complex adjacent to the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, in order to address retroactive pay. “I appreciate the sensitivity surrounding the decision to redirect these resources… however, leadership requires making responsible choices—prioritizing our community’s immediate, essential needs even when such decisions are difficult.”
The Governor also announced that his administration had successfully negotiated a $6 million settlement with Pafford Medical Services to resolve longstanding obligations tied to the Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital, the Department of Health, Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services, and the Bureau of Corrections.
“This agreement not only resolves these important obligations but also saves our government—and ultimately you, the taxpayers—nearly $2 million,” Bryan said. “Fulfilling our obligations to them is not simply about paying a bill; it’s a reflection of our shared values, our sense of fairness, and our commitment to make whole those who have supported us in moments of challenge and crisis.”
Later in the afternoon, following the Governor’s remarks, the Legislature voted in favor of both appropriations—authorizing funding to cover retroactive wages and approving the settlement payment to Pafford.
“I sincerely thank the members of the 36th Legislature for their diligence and thoughtful consideration of these important matters,” Bryan said. “Through continued collaboration, shared vision, and decisive leadership, I remain confident that together we can continue to substantively address the critical issues confronting our community.”
Tourism Momentum and Infrastructure Investment
Governor Bryan also reported on the Virgin Islands’ continued leadership in the Caribbean tourism market following last week’s Seatrade Cruise Global Conference in Miami. “Our productive conversations with partners like Disney, Carnival, and Royal Caribbean confirmed our status as a premier destination and opened doors to exciting new initiatives,” he said.
The Governor noted that the territory is projected to receive nearly 1.8 million cruise passengers this fiscal year—placing the Virgin Islands first in visitor spending in the Eastern Caribbean and second region-wide.
To maintain this momentum, the Governor outlined key initiatives, including providing solar energy to cruise ships while in port, targeted improvements to enhance visitor experience, and advancing the long-delayed dredging project to accommodate larger vessels.
On infrastructure, Governor Bryan highlighted progress on major projects such as the Mahogany Road reconstruction on St. Croix, continued work on Veterans Drive on St. Thomas, and plans to re-sand Frederiksted Beach. He also celebrated the recent reopening of the Reinholdt Jackson Sports Complex in Estate Whim, calling it “a space that holds deep meaning for many.”
“These places matter,” Bryan said. “They are the heart of our neighborhoods. They are places where memories are made, values are shared, and the rhythm of community life unfolds each day.”
Continued Recovery and Regional Cooperation
Earlier Monday morning, Governor Bryan toured two major recovery projects nearing completion: the Arthur A. Richards PreK-8 School and the Paul E. Joseph Stadium. “These are not just construction projects. They represent renewal. They reflect our commitment to education, to community, and to a future filled with possibility,” he said.
The Governor also previewed a meeting scheduled for Tuesday with British Virgin Islands Premier Natalio Wheatley and his delegation at Government House in St. Thomas. The meeting continues a dialogue first initiated in March on the shared marine charter yacht industry.
“This industry is a key part of our regional economy. It supports local jobs, sustains small businesses, and creates opportunities for families across our islands,” Bryan said. “Our focus remains clear. We are working together to strengthen regional collaboration and ensure that any agreement reflects a fair and balanced approach for both territories.”
Closing Reflections and Holy Week Message
Governor Bryan concluded his remarks with a personal reflection on community and progress, recalling the reopening of the Reinholdt Jackson Sports Complex.
“I saw little league baseball being played again on that field, heard the cheers of families in the stands, watched children laugh and play on the playground, and saw our local vendors back in the park sharing their crafts and talents. That is what community looks and feels like,” he said.
He offered a reminder that while some may focus only on what is lacking, signs of meaningful progress are all around. “To them, I say respectfully, look again. Look at the child swinging a bat on a field that once sat quiet… These are signs of progress. These are reasons to hope.”
As the territory observes Holy Week, the Governor offered warm wishes to residents across the Virgin Islands.
“This is a sacred time. It is a time for reflection, for renewal, and for faith. It reminds us that in every season of challenge, there is the promise of change. In every trial, there is the possibility of hope,” he said. “On behalf of my family and the entire Bryan Roach Administration, I wish you and your loved ones a blessed, joyful, and peaceful Holy Week.”
###
The post Governor Bryan Highlights Key Legislative Priorities, Announces $6 Million Pafford Settlement During Weekly Briefing appeared first on Government of the United States Virgin Islands.
Government of the United States Virgin Islands
