Recovery Work Progressing; $15M in Tax Refunds

M.A. Dworkin

St. Thomas - The weekly Government House Press Briefing was held at Government House on St. Thomas and Lt. Gov. Tregenza A. Roach provided an update on the Territory’s ongoing recovery efforts, the current stormy weather conditions, and the Administration’s continuing progress on issuing income tax refunds. Mr. Roach is acting-Governor, while Governor Albert Bryan Jr. is in Miami attending Seatrade Cruise Global 2026.

Lt. Governor Roach emphasized that recovery efforts across the Territory are gaining momentum, with several major milestones achieved in recent weeks.

“We have seen clear signs of progress,” the Lt. Governor said, pointing to the successful hosting of Industry Day, which brought together contractors, partners, and key stakeholders to align on upcoming recovery projects and opportunities tied to rebuilding the Territory. 

He also highlighted recent and upcoming school construction projects as significant steps forward to strengthening public education infrastructure. These include the groundbreaking for the modernization of Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School, the launch of construction for the new Charlotte Amalie High School, and the scheduled April 21, 2026 groundbreaking for the rebuilding of St. Croix Central High School.

“These are important milestones, not only for recovery, but for the future of public education in the Virgin Islands,” he said. “They reflect real movement and real investment, and a continued commitment to building back stronger for our students, our families and our communities.”

Weather Alerts Issued Residents Urged to Exercise Caution

Following the recovery update, Daryl Jaschen, Director of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) provided a weather briefing, warning of hazardous conditions across the Territory.

St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John have already received between two and three inches of rainfall, with an additional two to three inches expected by Monday evening. Flash flood warnings have been issued throughout the Territory, and a Marine Advisory remains in effect from the National Weather Service in Puerto Rico. 

Residents, particularly motorists, are urged to exercise caution, avoid flooded roadways, and stay alert to changing conditions.

$15 Million in Tax Refunds to be Issued

Lt. Gov. Roach also announced that the Administration is preparing to issue $15 million in income tax refunds next week, ahead of the Carnival Holiday season.

“We know these refunds make a real difference for families,” he said, noting the financial pressures many households face amid rising costs of living. 

The upcoming disbursement will bring the Government current to tax filings dated April 15, 2024.  

The Lt. Governor reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to prioritizing refunds, stating that continued efforts are being made to set aside the necessary funding to eliminate the backlog.