Since its inception in 1968, the LWV VI has focused its work on three primary areas of local interest : 1- ensuring the power of the vote, 2- promoting the importance of planning and protecting the VI environment and its natural resources, and 3- monitoring local government operations and structure. Three working committees were created to study and act on the three areas of concern:1- Voter Service Committee, 2-Planning and Environmental Quality Committee, and 3- Government Services and Operations Committee. Biannual goals for each committee are created and approved during Annual Meetings.
The Voter Service Committee has as its motto: “An informed citizen casts an informed vote”. During each election year, LWV VI develops and produces televised interviews with candidates for elective office. Questions and points for discussion are developed by the Board and the Committee. LWV VI members serve as moderators for the programs which have become a reliable source of information for the electorate. Voter Service also collaborates with the Election System of the USVI in registering citizens to vote and has developed flyers in English, Spanish and Haitian French Creole for distribution to newly inducted citizens on why and how to register to vote. Additionally, the committee provides feedback to local senators on election reform efforts/Bills in the VI Legislature and writes Guest Editorials for local news media on voting. Click here to learn more about Voter Service for 2025-2027.
Planning and Environmental Planning Committee (PEQ) Committe posits that without meaningful planning, the USVI could suffer catastrophic loss of its natural resources on which our economy and quality of life depend. For this reason, the PEQ has played pivotal roles for over 40 years in the development of a Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan for the Territory. LWV VI has been a catalyst for a number of Coastal Zone Management laws and has forged a sensible balance between economic development and the preservation of our natural resources. Click here to learn more about Planning and Environment for 2025-2027.
Government Services and Operations Committee works on the premise that the power of the people is greater than that of people in power. Further, it works on the understanding that the role of government is to be one of service to the people. The Committee therefore monitors government’s activities in service to the people by evaluating the annual budgetary ,allotments and expenditures. It evaluates the annual budget for the Territory and provides feedback to the Finance Committee. The Committee also monitors the Administration’s goals and accomplishments and the activities of the Judicial Branch and speaks out when the principle of separation of powers is infringed. Click here to learn more about Government Operations and Services for 2025-2027.
