The Senate Rules and Judiciary Committee met Thursday to review the governor’s nomination to the Virgin Islands Historic Preservation Commission and discuss a bill clarifying members’ term lengths.
During the hearing, committee members reviewed Mark M. Wiechnik’s extensive background in construction litigation and historic preservation, noting his work on restoration projects on St. Thomas, including the historic Hotel 1829, as well as two historic homes in New Jersey.
He cited his familiarity with local preservation regulations and emphasized his practical experience interpreting building codes and restoration standards. “Being involved in construction litigation will teach you what not to do,” Wiechnik said, explaining that his work has involved reading architectural plans, communicating with contractors, and ensuring projects comply with regulatory guidelines.
Senators pressed Wiechnik on persistent challenges, including high renovation costs, difficulty securing qualified contractors and financing, and the perception that commission processes can delay projects. Committee members urged the HPC to offer clearer guidance and hands-on support, especially for residents with limited resources, stressing the importance of developing support mechanisms for low and middle-income families.
Sen. Alma Francis Heyliger noted, “The public has a disconnect with this commission. That’s just the reality. They see it as bad, like anything to do with historic preservation is going to cost us money. We’re never going to get this thing done. They’re going to block me from getting projects.”
In response, the nominee’s proposals for proactive outreach, public education, and greater flexibility in preservation standards received broad support from the committee. “I think our goal should be to work with members of the public … and renovate some of these damaged and derelict properties, and to help them make the right choices, both for historic preservation and for their own budgets,” Wiechnik said.
The committee voted to advance Wiechnik’s nomination to the full Legislature for final confirmation.
Later in the session, lawmakers discussed a bill designed to clarify and unify the length of service for members of the Historic Preservation Commission.
Bill Number 36-0140 is a “straightforward measure,” said bill sponsor Sen. Avery L Lewis, describing it as a simple but necessary fix to ensure that “all members of the commission shall serve a term of two years.” He said the change would bring consistency and strengthen the commission’s ability to protect the territory’s historic and cultural resources.
Sean Krigger, director of the State Historic Preservation Office for DPNR, testified in support of the bill, explaining that the current mix of one and two-year appointments has caused administrative confusion. “The law isn’t very clear about the term of service for members of the Commission, and that has caused some confusion,” he said.
Senators asked how the new two-year term structure would be implemented, particularly whether current members would start new terms or continue their existing appointments. Krigger recommended that all sitting and future members begin fresh two-year terms when the measure takes effect. He said this “reset” would eliminate confusion and ensure all members serve under the same rules moving forward.
The committee also discussed maintaining full membership and avoiding vacancies during the transition. Lawmakers suggested extending terms to three or four years to improve continuity, but Krigger noted that two-year terms remain practical because current law allows members to continue serving until replacements are confirmed.
After final questions and minor technical adjustments, the committee voted to advance the bill. With their approval, both the bill and the nomination now head to the full Legislature, with Krigger noting, “We are working to preserve and protect our architectural and cultural heritage. It’s an honor to do so, and I thank you.”
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