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Government of the United States Virgin Islands Budget Hearing Presentation Committee on Finance JUNE 17, 2026 Presenter: Patrick D. Farrell Director GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs Budget Testimony June 17, 2026 Chairman of the Committee on Finance, the Honorable Senator Novelle E. Francis, Jr.; other members of the Committee on Finance; and distinguished Senators of the 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands of the United States, pleasant good day to you. Additional greetings to everyone physically present, those viewing via the Legislature’s LEGIT TV, and those following through other media sources. Special greetings and prayers to our servicemen and women currently serving around the world. You are serving during unpredictable times, but please know you are in our hearts every step of the way. To those who have borne the battle, known to us as our Veterans, thank you for your service to our country and our beloved Territory. To the staff of the Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs, whom I refer to as the “Pillars of the Office of Veterans Affairs” (Mrs. Frederick, Ms. Daniel, and Mrs. Gordon), thank you for your daily commitment to our Veterans. Your dedication enhances their quality of life and exemplifies our mission. I am Patrick D. Farrell, Director of the Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs. Today, I present the Fiscal Year 2027 budget for our office. With me is Mrs. Frederick, our Program Administrator. Today, more than 8,000 Veterans call the Virgin Islands home. Every dollar entrusted to the Office of Veterans Affairs is directed toward one purpose, ensuring those who served our nation receive the benefits, services, dignity, and support they have earned. The Office of Veterans Affairs continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of our Veteran population. While maintaining our core mission, we are also focused on expanding access to services, modernizing operations, strengthening partnerships, and increasing awareness of benefits available to Veterans and their families throughout the Territory. Though the Virgin Islands is home to thousands of Veterans, only a fraction are actively engaged with the Office of Veterans Affairs and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs healthcare system. Through continued outreach, 1 GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS communications, and modernization efforts, we always strive to increase Veteran participation and ensure more Veterans receive the benefits they have earned through military service. Staffing Overview We are staffed at 83 percent of our authorized positions. On St. Thomas there is one Coordinator of Veterans Programs and one Program Administrator. On St. Croix there is one Administrative Officer III. The Director position, which I hold, is territorial. Two positions remain vacant, the Administrative Officer II and Administrative Assistant position. These positions are vacant due to the proposal for a restructuring of personnel positions initiated by me within the office. After careful assessment, I realized that instead of 2 more administrative positions, we can benefit far more from a Communication and Veterans Engagement Specialist. This individual would be very instrumental in increasing public awareness of Veterans programs, benefits, services, and initiatives while strengthening engagement with Veterans, their families, stakeholders, and community partners throughout the territory. Too often, Veterans fail to access services simply because they are unaware that those services exist. This individual will also assist with public information, media relations, digital communications, and community outreach. Improved communications will directly translate into increased Veteran participation and engagement resulting in improved outcomes, and greater awareness of services available through both the Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. All union employee raises are current, with no retroactive payments owed. Morale remains high at 8.5 out of 10 making the Office a great place both to work and to serve. Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Overview For Fiscal Year 2026, our requested General Fund appropriations were in the amount of $1,319,369.00. Of that amount, an estimated $506,347.00 was earmarked to cover personnel salaries and fringe benefits; $363,022.00 for operating expenses; and $450,000.00 collectively earmarked for non-service-connected medical travel to the closest VA medical GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS facility, Veteran elective medical travel outside of our region, including Puerto Rico, and burial benefits. As recently as May 2026, LaCare Home Care was added to the VA Community Care Network. This addition allows VA Primary Care Providers to refer Veterans who require home healthcare services directly to LaCare, reducing the need for similar services through the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services. Last fiscal year, we reimbursed the families of 54 Veterans for burial benefits at a total cost of $241,141.94. Year-to-date, we have reimbursed the families of 36 Veterans at a total cost of $155,705.67. Of the $225,000.00 allotted for burial benefits, a balance of $69,294.33 remains available for the remainder of the fiscal year. Normally, the office receives $100,000.00 annually in non-appropriated funds from the Virgin Islands Lottery and 20 percent of the proceeds generated from annual Veterans Taxi Medallion Auctions for operational expenses. The Virgin Islands Lottery has provided us with the first allotment for this fiscal year, and we fully expect to receive the second allotment on schedule. Thank you Virgin Islands Lottery for your continued support to the Veterans of the Virgin Islands. As it relates to the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission, Veterans Taxi Medallion Auctions are mandated by law and have consistently taken place. However, the Office of Veterans Affairs has not received proceeds from auctions conducted in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. Based on those auctions, the Office of Veterans Affairs is owed $61,639.92, representing our statutory share of proceeds over that five-year period. While we appreciate the continued support of the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission, we respectfully request assistance from this body in ensuring that statutory distributions from Veterans Taxi Medallion Auctions are remitted timely and consistently. These funds were established specifically to support programs and services for Veterans, and timely distribution will ensure that the Office can maximize the impact of these resources for those who have served our nation. Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Request For Fiscal Year 2027, our requested General Fund appropriations are in the amount of $1,219,369.00. GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Of our requested amount, an estimated $525,814.00 is designated for personnel salaries and fringe benefits; $243,552.00 for operating expenses; and $450,000.00 collectively earmarked for non-service-connected VA medical travel both within and outside of our region, as well as burial benefits. Additionally, an estimated $111,600.00 in non-appropriated funds is projected to be received from the Virgin Islands Lottery and the Taxicab Commission collectively and included in our operational funding. Agency Assets and Operational Readiness The Office of Veterans Affairs currently owns four vehicles: e One 2023 Chevrolet Traverse and one 2022 Chevrolet Colorado on the island of St. Thomas. e One 2020 Chevrolet Traverse and one 2022 Chevrolet Colorado on the island of St. Croix. Three of the four vehicles remain in very good condition. The Chevrolet Traverse assigned to St. Croix is scheduled for a comprehensive service and assessment to identify and correct an ongoing mechanical issue. These vehicles remain critical to the daily operations of the Office and assist with outreach activities, transportation support, cemetery operations, and Veteran services throughout both island districts. Elimination of Reimbursement Backlogs I am pleased to report that the backlog of reimbursements for Veteran Medical Travel and burial benefits has been eliminated. Currently, only those requests submitted within the last thirty days remain in the normal processing cycle. I would like to thank the Virgin Islands Department of Finance for its support in helping us achieve this milestone. The Department often receives criticism for matters that may be beyond its direct control; however, let the record reflect that the Veterans of the Virgin Islands appreciate the efforts made to ensure that Veterans and their families receive reimbursements in a timely manner. GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Clarence Beverhoudt, Sr. Veterans Complex As a result of Act No. 8650, $1.5 million was appropriated for the construction of the Clarence Beverhoudt, Sr. Veterans Complex. To date, $237,160.00 has been encumbered for the design phase of the project, which is being facilitated by NV5 Incorporated. The design is currently approximately 50 percent complete. Invoice #1 in the amount of $27,983.48 and Invoice #2 in the amount of $45,957.23, totaling $73,940.71, have been paid. Invoice #3 in the amount of $13,540.60 and Invoice #4 in the amount of $16,872.26 are currently under review and are expected to be processed shortly. We continue to work closely with Department of Public Works Engineer Jermaine Tyson, who is serving as Project Manager for this initiative. Upon completion, this project will result in a modern two-story facility located at the site of the former Smalls Electric Building on Legion Hall Drive in Subbase. The facility will house the St. Thomas Office of the Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs AND provide a dedicated meeting and event space for the Patrick U. George American Legion Post No. 90. The facility will also serve as a venue for Veteran outreach programs, educational seminars, community meetings, and other appropriate gatherings. Additionally, policies will be established allowing portions of the facility to be rented for approved events. Revenue generated through these activities will assist with maintaining the facility and reducing long-term operational costs. This should also help to make this facility self-sustaining and not reliant on the general fund. The facility will also include an elevator to ensure accessibility for our disabled Veterans and visitors. This project represents much more than a building. It represents a permanent investment in the Veterans of the Virgin Islands and a visible reminder of our Territory's commitment to those who have served. While we are extremely grateful for the current appropriation but, there will come a time in the near future when additional funding will be required to complete the project. Once final design work is completed, we will have a more accurate GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS understanding of future funding needs and will return to this body with any necessary requests. Virgin Islands State Veterans Cemetery Separately, $350,000.00 was appropriated by the 34th Legislature as the required ten- percent match for participation in the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Cemetery Grants Program. I am pleased to report that this project continues to move forward. The Virgin Islands has received a conditional letter of approval from the National Cemetery Administration, placing us on a path toward final approval on or before October 1, 2026. One of the major requirements associated with receiving this conditional approval involved amending Virgin Islands law to allow not only Virgin Islands Veterans, but all eligible Veterans of the United States Armed Forces, to be interred at the future State Veterans Cemetery on St. Croix. Thanks to the swift action of the 36th Legislature, this requirement was successfully met. This cemetery project will ensure that future generations of Veterans have access to a dignified final resting place within the Territory they proudly called home. Veterans Burial Infrastructure On the island of St. Thomas, two crypts and one columbarium have been completed and are currently being utilized for the interment of Veterans and eligible family members. However, the need continues to grow. We have now reached the point where an additional multi-vault crypt is needed immediately on St. Thomas. Accordingly, I respectfully request that this body consider providing supplemental funding that would allow the Office of Veterans Affairs to move forward with construction of an additional crypt. On St. Croix, one crypt has been completed. We are currently in the process of purchasing a forklift with the assistance of the Virgin Islands Department of Public Works that will assist with the safe placement of remains above waist level and also support future operations. Thank you Department of Public Works for your continued support and assistance. GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Expansion of Veteran Medical Travel Benefits Fiscal Year 2025 saw us reimbursing 191 Veterans traveling between the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico and mainland United States totaling $66,777.18. The ability to travel for routine VA medical appointments without creating additional financial hardship has significantly improved access to healthcare for our Veterans. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs has also played a significant role in reducing the number of Veterans who need to travel outside of the Territory for VA medical appointments. Through its Community Care Network, the VA has continued its partnership with VI Equicare, the largest independent Preferred Provider Organization in the Virgin Islands. VI Equicare’s membership includes most primary care physicians, specialists, ancillary facilities, and allied healthcare practitioners practicing throughout the Territory. As you can imagine, this relationship creates easier access to healthcare providers in the Virgin Islands. Through Equicare, the VA invites local providers to become members of the VA Community Care Network. Having these providers as part of the network significantly reduces the need for Veterans to travel outside of the Territory to receive care. As a result of Act No. 8991, the Veterans Emergency and Mainland Transportation and Burial Expenses Account now authorizes the Office of Veterans Affairs to reimburse Veterans who travel to the mainland United States for VA medical treatment up to two times per year. Fiscal Year 2024 saw us reimbursing eight Veterans at the rate of $250 per Veteran for a total of $2,000 under our previous policy. FY 2025 saw us reimbursing 12 Veterans for stateside VA medical affiliated travel at total cost of $6, 340.97. As time goes by the word gets out which resulted, for the period beginning October 2025 through today, in us reimbursing twenty-five trips for Veterans traveling to the mainland United States at a total cost of $18,446.09. It is evident that this is a benefit that has been long awaited. This has enhanced the quality of life for our Veterans by allowing them to attend important medical appointments without having to choose between their healthcare needs and other essential living expenses. Access to healthcare should never be determined by geography, and this legislation has helped reduce one of the barriers facing Veterans who reside in the Virgin Islands. 7 GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Fly The Whale Partnership The Office of Veterans Affairs also established a partnership with Fly The Whale Airlines that has proven highly beneficial to Veterans residing on St. Croix. Since October 1, 2025, ninety-two Veterans have utilized this benefit at a total cost of $32,296.00. This partnership allows eligible Veterans to travel to the VA Caribbean Healthcare System in Puerto Rico without paying out-of-pocket expenses for transportation. As a result, Veterans can redirect those funds toward housing, food, medications, and other living expenses. This program has proven to be a significant quality-of-life improvement for Veterans residing on St. Croix. Efforts remain underway to establish a similar opportunity for Veterans residing within the St. Thomas-St. John District. Once finalized, we will ensure that the public is notified immediately. Return on Legislative Investment Since our last budget hearing, the Office of Veterans Affairs has continued to demonstrate responsible stewardship of public resources while expanding services and improving outcomes for Veterans throughout the Territory. Our accomplishments reflect the continued support of this Legislature and demonstrate our commitment to improving the quality of life for Veterans throughout the Virgin Islands. A major thank you to this body for its continued support. Notable Accomplishments and Initiatives Some of our more notable accomplishments during the latter part of the previous fiscal year and the current fiscal year to date include the following, listed in no specific order or priority: 1. Women Veterans Day Celebration The Office of Veterans Affairs successfully hosted the 2026 Women Veterans Day Celebration on the island of St. Croix. This annual event rotates between island districts to ensure that Women Veterans throughout the Territory have an opportunity GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS to participate and be recognized for their service and sacrifice. The event provided an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of Women Veterans while strengthening relationships between Veterans, community partners, and federal stakeholders. Next year, we are exploring the possibility of hosting the event on the island of St. John. Through our annual Women Veterans Day celebration, partnerships with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Center for Women Veterans, and the creation of the Virgin Islands' first Women Veteran License Plate, we continue to elevate awareness and support for this growing segment of our Veteran population. Additionally, there is legislation in draft form which will increase the staffing at the Office of Veterans Affairs to include a Woman Veterans Coordinator. This will create a significant impact amongst our Women Veterans. This position will require the occupancy of a Woman Veteran. I have seen this position work across the United States, and it is time for the Virgin Islands to adopt. Women Veterans, more help is on the way!!! Thank you to Senator Marise James, an Army Veteran herself, for championing this cause. Senators, Women Veterans of the Virgin Islands and I ask for your support on this measure at the appropriate time. Women Veterans continue to make significant contributions to our communities, and our office remains committed to ensuring that their service and sacrifices receive the recognition they deserve. 2. Naming of Virgin Islands VA Clinics The Office of Veterans Affairs continues to advocate for the naming of both VA Community Based Outpatient Clinics in the Virgin Islands in honor of two Virgin Islanders who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our nation during Operation Iraqi Freedom. If approved, the St. Croix VA Clinic would be named in honor of Lieutenant Colonel David C. Canegata III, and the St. Thomas VA Clinic would be named in honor of Sergeant First Class Floyd E. Lake. Both men were proud sons of the Virgin Islands whose service and sacrifice continue to inspire generations of Virgin Islanders. The process requires Congressional approval, and we continue to work closely with Delegate Stacey Plaskett and her staff to move this initiative forward. We believe GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS these designations would provide a lasting tribute to two fallen heroes while preserving their legacy for future generations. 3. Creation of the First Women Veteran License Plate The Office of Veterans Affairs successfully led the creation of the first Women Veteran License Plate in the history of the Virgin Islands. The design was selected by a group of approximately forty Women Veterans who reviewed and voted on six design concepts. The winning design was officially unveiled during the Women Veterans Day celebration held on June 12, 2026. Production of the plates is currently underway, and we expect them to be available to the public in the near future. This initiative represents another meaningful step toward ensuring that Women Veterans receive visible recognition for their service and contributions to our nation. 4. Disabled Veteran Parking Initiative The Office of Veterans Affairs initiated a territory-wide Disabled Veteran Parking Initiative designed to improve accessibility and recognize the sacrifices of disabled Veterans throughout the Virgin Islands. Following the announcement of this initiative, Dr. Safiya George, President of the University of the Virgin Islands, immediately expressed interest in participating. As a result, the University of the Virgin Islands will become the first institution in the Territory to formally designate parking spaces specifically for disabled Veterans. A site survey has already been completed on St. Thomas, and three locations have been identified for implementation pending final sign design and installation.A similar assessment on St. Croix will be conducted in the coming weeks. The Office of the Virgin Islands ADA Coordinator has been actively involved in this initiative to ensure compliance with all accessibility requirements. I would like to publicly thank Director Henley and his team for their partnership and commitment to this effort. 10 GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 5. National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs Fall Conference 2027 After presenting to the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs, the Virgin Islands was selected by an overwhelming margin to host the 2027 NASDVA Fall Conference. The conference is currently scheduled to take place in August 2027. This will mark the second time that I have had the privilege of convincing the fifty states and six territories that the Virgin Islands is the ideal location to host one of our national conferences. Initial discussions have already begun with The Westin Beach Resort & Spa at Frenchman's Reef regarding conference facilities, accommodations, and logistics. Hosting the 2027 National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs Fall Conference represents more than an opportunity for Veteran advocacy. The conference will generate economic activity through hotel occupancy, transportation services, restaurants, entertainment venues, and other tourism-related spending. Attendees from across the nation and its territories will have an opportunity to experience the Virgin Islands while conducting the business of serving America's Veterans. As we did in 2017, we intend to showcase the very best of the Virgin Islands while simultaneously advancing issues important to Veterans nationwide. I respectfully ask this body to consider supporting this effort through an appropriation similar to what was provided for our previous conference. Thank you in advance for your consideration. 6. Veterans Day Partnership with STEEMC The Office of Veterans Affairs and the St. Thomas East End Medical Center Corporation (STEEMC) have initiated discussions with the VA Caribbean Healthcare System regarding a new healthcare access initiative. The concept involves establishing a recurring Veterans Day at STEEMC, potentially one Saturday each month, where services would be dedicated exclusively to Veterans. Under this model, Veterans seen by VA providers could be referred to STEEMC for certain services rather than traveling to Puerto Rico for treatment. This initiative has 11 GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS the potential to improve healthcare access, reduce travel requirements, create cost savings for Veterans, and reduce expenses incurred by the Government of the Virgin Islands. Participation would remain voluntary and designed solely to provide Veterans with additional healthcare options closer to home. 7. Emergency Medical Travel Attendant Initiative When Veterans are transferred to the San Juan VA Medical Center under emergency circumstances, family members are often left without housing accommodations during a highly stressful time. Recognizing this challenge, the Office of Veterans Affairs has begun exploring a partnership with a hotel in Puerto Rico to provide temporary lodging accommodations for a family member accompanying a Veteran during emergency medical transfers. The proposal would provide lodging for the first two nights following a Veteran's transfer. This brief period would allow family members to ensure that their loved one is properly situated, communicate directly with healthcare providers, and establish a support system during the initial stages of treatment. This initiative is intended as a temporary solution until construction of the Fisher House in Puerto Rico is completed. Once operational, the Fisher House will provide qualifying family members with complimentary lodging while their Veteran is hospitalized. Strategic Priorities Moving Forward Some of the initiatives we will continue to focus on throughout the remainder of this fiscal year and into Fiscal Year 2027 include: 1. Completion of the design phase of the Clarence Beverhoudt, Sr. Veterans Complex, demolition of the existing structure, and commencement of construction activities, including a groundbreaking ceremony. 2. Advancement of the Virgin Islands State Veterans Cemetery project through final design completion and progression toward construction. 12 GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 3. Solicitation of bids and initiation of the construction process for an additional multi-vault crypt within the Veterans Section of the Eastern Cemetery on St. Thomas. 4. Expansion of healthcare partnerships designed to reduce the need for Veterans to travel outside of the Territory for medical treatment. 5. Continued outreach efforts focused on increasing Veteran participation in both territorial and federal Veteran programs. 6. Expansion of services and recognition initiatives for Women Veterans throughout the Virgin Islands. 7. Continued advocacy for naming the Virgin Islands VA Clinics in honor of Lieutenant Colonel David C. Canegata III and Sergeant First Class Floyd E. Lake. Commitment to Continuous Improvement We continue to assess our operations and identify opportunities to make this agency an even better, more efficient, and more responsive organization for the Veterans we serve. The Office of Veterans Affairs remains fully committed to its mission: "To honor the commitment of Virgin Islanders who rose to the challenge of wearing our nation's military uniform, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, by continuing to advocate on their behalf and by enhancing their quality of life by ensuring they receive all entitled services and benefits." While our mission remains unchanged, our approach continues to evolve. The Office of Veterans Affairs is no longer focused solely on maintaining services. We are actively expanding opportunities, improving access, modernizing operations, strengthening partnerships, and positioning the Virgin Islands as a national leader in Veteran advocacy among states and territories. Our vision extends beyond today's needs. We are building the infrastructure, partnerships, and programs necessary to ensure that future generations of Virgin 13 GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Islands Veterans receive the care, benefits, services, and recognition they have earned through military service. Technology and Modernization The Office of Veterans Affairs continues to encourage Veterans to access our services through available technology whenever possible. Although our offices remain fully open and accessible to the public, we recognize that many Veterans appreciate the convenience of conducting business remotely. For those Veterans who are comfortable utilizing technology, our website provides the ability to complete many services from the comfort of their homes, workplaces, or other convenient locations. Through our website, Veterans can: + Register with the Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs * Request military service records + Submit requests for authorized medical travel reimbursement * Apply for educational waivers + Access information regarding benefits and available services * Obtain important forms and agency updates These technological improvements increase efficiency, reduce travel requirements, and improve overall customer service. At the same time, we fully recognize that many Veterans either do not have reliable access to computers or may not feel comfortable navigating online systems. For those Veterans, our commitment remains unchanged. Every Veteran will continue to receive the same personalized, face-to-face assistance that has long been the hallmark of the Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs. Our doors remain open, and our staff remains ready to assist whenever needed. Technology will never replace our service to Veterans, it will only enhance it. 14 GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Looking Toward the Future As we move forward, our focus will remain on increasing Veteran participation in available programs and services, strengthening partnerships throughout the Territory, expanding healthcare access, improving infrastructure, and ensuring that every Veteran receives the support they have earned through their service to our nation. We will continue to strengthen relationships with our federal partners, community organizations, elected officials, and Veteran Service Organizations to ensure that the Virgin Islands remains at the forefront of Veteran advocacy. Most importantly, we will continue listening to our Veterans. Their concerns, ideas, and experiences help guide the decisions we make and the priorities we pursue. Closing Remarks Mr. Chairman, members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today. On behalf of the men and women who have worn our nation's uniform and now call the Virgin Islands home, thank you for your continued support of the Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs and the programs that serve our Veteran community. The accomplishments highlighted today would not be possible without the support of this Legislature, our federal partners, community stakeholders, Veteran Service Organizations, and the dedicated employees of the Office of Veterans Affairs. Together, we have made meaningful progress. Together, we have improved access to healthcare, expanded benefits, strengthened programs, and laid the foundation for transformational projects that will benefit Veterans for generations to come. Yet our work is not finished. Mrs. Frederick and I remain available to answer any questions that you or any member of this honorable body may have. Thank you for your time, your partnership, and your continued commitment to the Veterans of the Virgin Islands. a5 GOVERNMENT OF the VIRGIN ISLANDS of the UNITED STATES OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS May God continue to bless the Veterans of the Virgin Islands, the United States Virgin Islands, and the United States of America. Thank you. 16 OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS oh ORGANIZATIONAL CHART aa ae OVA EXH A 6/15/2026 COMMUNICATION PAID FROM 10-01-25 to PRESENT OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FISCAL YEAR 2026 STT (ONE) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $552.32] $747.66 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $0.00] $1,299.98 STX (ONE) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $224.37] $384.19 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $0.00 $608.56 CELL PHONE (LIBERTY) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $0.00 $0.00 STT CABLE (ONE) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $12.50 $33.53 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $0.00 $46.03 STX CABLE (ONE) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $42.29 $0.00 $469.46] $427.17 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $0.00 $938.92 TOTALS $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $42.29 $12.50| $1,279.68 | $1,559.02 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00| $0.00} $2,893.49 INTERNET PAID FROM 10-01-25 TO PRESENT (BIT) STT* $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $2,250.00 $0.00 $0.00} $1,125.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $0.00) $3,375.00 STX* $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $2,250.00 $0.00 $0.00} $1,125.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $0.00] $3,375.00 TOTALS $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00| $4,500.00 $0.00 $0.00 | $2,250.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $0.00| $6,750.00 TOTAL COMMUNICATIONS $9,643.49 *THE MONTHLY CHARGE FOR INTERNET IS $375.00 BY BUREAU OF INFORMATON TECHNOLOGY (BIT) FOR BOTH ST. THOMAS AND ST. CROIX. (BILLED QUARTERLY FOR $1,125.00) UTILITIES PAID FROM 10-01-25 TO PRESENT (WAPA) Electricity* $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00] $0.00 $0.00 Water* $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $0.00 $0.00 STX TOTAL $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $0.00 $0.00 Electricity $0.00} $3,311.59] $4,302.67] $2,489.77 $0.00] $2,745.82] $4,668.66] $1,855.73 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $0.00| $19,374.24 Water** $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00} $0.00 $0.00 STT TOTALS} $0.00} $3,311.59| $4,302.67| $2,489.77 $0.00| $2,745.82] $4,668.66 | $1,855.73 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00| $0.00| $19,374.24 TOTAL ST. THOMAS/ST. CROIX $19,374.24 *THE ELECTRICITY AND WATER FOR THE ST. CROIX LOCATION ARE BEING PAID BY VIPD (PAL PROGRAM). **\WE HAVE NOT PAID WATER FOR ST. THOMAS DUE TO A CREDIT BALANCE ON THE ACCOUNT. TERRITORY (STT & STX) ELECTRICITY $19,374.24 WATER $0.00 TOTAL $19,374.24 [communication | TERRITORY (STT & STX) Phone/Cable/Cell $2,893.49 INTERNET $6,750.00 TOTAL $9,643.49 OVA EXHIBIT B OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS VI GOVERNMENT LOCAL REVENUES, CONTRIBUTIONS AND GRANTS FISCAL YEAR 2026 DESCRIPTION 4ST QUARTER |2ND QUARTER |3RD QUARTER |4TH QUARTER |GRAND TOTALS Revenues: Veterans Taxi Medallion Auctions* $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 Contributions: VI Lottery** $0.00 $0.00 $50,000.00 $0.00 $50,000.00 TOTALS $0.00 $0.00 $50,000.00 $0.00 $50,000.00 DESCRIPTION FISCALYEAR |AMOUNT Revenues: Dec 2021 Taxi |FY2022 $14,060.12 Medallion Auction Revenues: Dec 2022 Taxi |FY2023 $11,020.00 Medallion Auction Revenues: Dec 2023 Taxi |FY 2024 $10,259.80 Medallion Auction Revenues: Dec 2024 Taxi |FY 2025 $11,400.00 Medallion Auction Revenues: Dec 2025 Taxi |FY2026 $14,900.00 Medallion Auction Contributions: Vi Lottery |FY2026 $50,000.00 TOTALS $111,639.92 *We are pending the total amount of $61,639.92 from VI Taxi Commision for Fiscal Years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026. **We are pending the amount of $50,000.00 from the VI Lottery for Fiscal Year 2026 from the total allotted amount of $100,000.00. DESCRIPTION 1ST QUARTER |2ND QUARTER /|3RD QUARTER |4TH QUARTER GRAND TOTALS Veteran Medical Travel and Death Benefit*** $112,500.00 $112,500.00 $112,500.00 $0.00 $337,500.00 ***The amount of $450,000.00 was appropriated for Fiscal Year 2026. The amount of $337,500.00 was released as of today. FUND ORGINAL DISBURSEMENT |BALANCE Veteran Medical Travel $225,000.00 $90,965.98 $134,034.02 Death Benefit $225,000.00 $155,705.67 $69,294.33 TOTALS 450,000.00 $246,671.65 $203,328.35 OVA EXHIBIT C <a AR RU RN BES A ARTIS EAR 1° 2027 129000001 DIRECTOR 2027 2027 229000004 ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER Il! 2027 VETERAN ¢ 2027 PROGRAM 2027 229000008 ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER I 2027 900290001 PAY PLAN ADJUSTMENTS: 10100 290 10 coo00 0 1 00000 29000 2900 38890 FARRELL, PATRICK EXEMPT $ 115,000.00 10100 290 10 000000 1 00000 29000 2900 = XXX VACANT $ 43,409.00 10100 290 10 oo000 0 1 00000 29000 2900 68866 GORDON, LASHERN $ 40,134.00 10100 290 10 oo000 0 1 00000 29000 2900 68815 DANIEL, KEISHELL $ 44,255.00 10100 290 10 coo00 0 1 00000 29000 2900 88873 FREDERICK, JULIETTE $ 60,456.00 10100 290 10 ooo00 0 a 0000 29000 2900 000 VACANT $ 36,375.00 10100 290 10 oo000 0 1 00000 29000 2900 301 PAY PLAN ADJUSTMENTS $ - OMB EXHIBIT A 43,640.01 $ 158,640.01 24,669.01 32,069.25 24,932.54 38,399.55 22,477.22 $ $ $ $ $ $ 68,078.01 72,203.25 69,187.54 98,855.55 58,852.92 Activity Sum of FTE* Sum of SALARIES TOTAL Sum of FRINGE TOTAL Sum of TOTAL 339,629.00 $ 186,188.29 $ 525,817.29 Project Grand Total 7.00 $ 339,629.00 $ 186,188.29 $ 525,817.29 OMB EXHIBIT B $s 224,629.00 0100 GENERAL FUND No Project 1 PERSONNEL SERVICES PERSONNEL SERVICES Total 2 FRINGE BENEFITS FRINGE BENEFITS Tota! 3 SUPPLIES SUPPLIES Total 4 OTHER SERVICES OTHER SERVICES Total 5S UTILITY SERVICES UTILITY SERVICES Total No Project Total VET MEDICAL & BURIAL EXP 4 OTHER SERVICES OTHER SERVICES Total VET MEDICAL & BURIAL EXP Total GENERAL FUND Total 1,219,369.00 $ 4,219,369.00_ Grand Total 0100-290-10-00000-0-1-00000-29000-2900-511000 0100-290-10-00000-0-1-00000-29000-2900-511010 0100-290-10-00000-0-1-00000-29000-2900-520010 0100-290-10-00000-0-1-00000-29000-2900-521000 0100-290-10-00000-0-1-00000-29000-2900-521100 0100-290-10-00000-0-1-00000-29000-2900-522000 0100-290-10-00000-0-1-00000-29000-2900-522200 0100-290-10-00000-0-3-00000-29000-2900-541000 0100-290- 10-00000-0-3-00000-29000-2900-541100 0100-290-10-00000-0-3-00000-29000-2900-541200 0100-290-10-00000-0-3-00000-29000-2900-542000 0100-290- 10-00000-0-3-00000-29000-2900-542100 0100-290-10-00000-0-3-00000-29000-2900-543100 0100-290-10-00000-0-3-00000-29000-2900-546100 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-532000 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-532100 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-533000 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-533020 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-534110 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-535000 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-535010 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-535020 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-536000 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-560000 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-560001 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-560100 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-564100 0100-290-10-00000-0-4-00000-29000-2900-564700 0100-290-10-00000-0-5-00000-29000-2900-530000 0100-290-10-00000-0-5-00000-29000-2900-531010 0100-290-10-0000-0-4-M1281-29001-2900-563200 0100-290-10-0000-0-4-M1281-29001-2900-564300 CLASSIFIED EMPLOYEE SALARIES UNCLASSIFIED EMPLOYEE SALARIES EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTION RETIRE FILCA, MEDICARE HEALTH INSURANCE PREMIUM WORKERS COMP PREMIUMS OFFICE SUPPLIES OPERATING SUPPLIES. VEHICLE SUPPLIES REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE SUP SMALL TOOLS AND MINOR EQUIP FOOD & CATERING (CLOTHING AND CLOTH MATERIAL REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE RENTAL OF LAND/BUILDINGS RENTAL MACHINES/EQUIPMENT TRAINING COMMUNICATION ADVERTISING & PROMOTION PRINTING AND BINDING TRANSPORTATION - NOT TRAVEL TRAVEL TRAVEL / CASH ADVANCE PURCHASE BULK AIRLINE OTHER SERVICES NOC CONTR TO INDEPENDENT AGE ELECTRICITY WATER RELIEF TO INDIVIDUALS DEATH BENEFIT PAYMENTS $s $ vuvnuve il vuvuvune vVuvunvuvvvununuunne ve $ 115,000.00 339,629.00 68,063.00 21,057.00 4,925.00 91,734.00 409.00 186,188.00 4,000.00 20,000.00 5,000.00 3,000.00 5,000.00 10,000.00 5,000.00 52,000.00 15,000.00 3,000.00 50,000.00 19,552.00 1,000.00 15,000.00 10,000.00 5,000.00 3,000.00 20,000.00 5,000.00 10,000.00 10,000.00 10,000.00 176,552.00 10,000.00 5,000.00 15,000.00 769,369.00 225,000.00 225,000.00 450,000.00 450,000.00 OMB EXHIBIT C ») 511010 UNCLASSIFIED EMPLOYEE SALARIES 513000 OVERTIME SALARIES 515000 HOLIDAY PAY 515010 SICK PAY 515020 ACCRUED LEAVE PAY 515040 ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE PAY 515050 FUNERAL 511000 CLASSIFIED EMPLOYEE SALARIES 514000 NIGHT DIFFERENTIAL COMP 520010 EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTION RETIRE 521000 F.I.C.A. 521100 MEDICARE 522000 HEALTH INSURANCE PREMIUM 522200 WORKERS COMP PREMIUMS 541000 OFFICE SUPPLIES 541100 OPERATING SUPPLIES 541200 VEHICLE SUPPLIES 542000 REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE SUP 542100 SMALL TOOLS AND MINOR EQUIP 543100 FOOD & CATERING 546100 CLOTHING AND CLOTH MATERIAL 532000 REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE 532100 AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR & MAINTENANC 533000 RENTAL OF LAND/BUILDINGS 533020 RENTAL MACHINES/EQUIPMENT 534110 TRAINING 535000 COMMUNICATION 535010 ADVERTISING & PROMOTION 535020 PRINTING AND BINDING 536000 TRANSPORTATION - NOT TRAVEL 560000 TRAVEL 560001 TRAVEL / CASH ADVANCE 560100 PURCHASE BULK AIRLINE TICKETS 564100 OTHER SERVICES NOC 564700 CONTR TO INDEPENDENT AGE 563200 RELIEF TO INDIVIDUALS 564300 DEATH BENEFIT PAYMENTS 530000 ELECTRICITY 531010 WATER 530000 ELECTRICITY 531010 WATER wVuunuunuunvnuvnuunuunyNunny wuuuvnvunw wvuunuus wuuunvnuvunuvy www 225,519 340,519 68,272 21,112 4,938 71,097 403 165,828 9,000 25,000 5,000 3,000 25,000 22,000 10,000 99,000 27,000 5,000 50,000 25,000 2,022 20,000 15,000 5,000 8,000 32,000 5,000 20,000 25,000 10,000 225,000 225,000 699,022 10,000 Grand Total 1,319,369 OMB EXHIBIT D 511010 UNCLASSIFIED EMPLOYEE SALARIES $ 107,998.32 513000 OVERTIME SALARIES $ 2,236.89 514030 LUMP SUM PAYMENTS $ 1,200.01 514040 FEES & COMPENSATION NOC $ 1,873.70 515000 HOLIDAY PAY $ 18,799.77 515010 SICK PAY $ 4,697.69 515020 ACCRUED LEAVE PAY $ 18,003.63 515040 ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE PAY $ 2,265.12 515050 FUNERAL $ 1,238.81 511000 CLASSIFIED EMPLOYEE SALARIES $ 118,471.87 514000 NIGHT DIFFERENTIAL COMP $ 71.34 $ 276,857.15 520010 EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTION RETIRE $ 52,417.34 521000 F.L.CA. $ 17,164.98 521100 MEDICARE $ 4014.31 522000 HEALTH INSURANCE PREMIUM $ 62,457.19 522200 WORKERS COMP PREMIUMS $ 682.34 $ 136,736.16 541000 OFFICE SUPPLIES $ 4,418.22 541100 OPERATING SUPPLIES $ 20,470.87 541200 VEHICLE SUPPLIES $ 4,910.41 542000 REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE SUP $ 7,395.00 542100 SMALL TOOLS AND MINOR EQUIP $ 795.00 543100 FOOD & CATERING $ 5,831.78 546100 CLOTHING AND CLOTH MATERIAL $ 7,821.00 $ 51,642.28 532000 REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE $ 30,787.00 532100 AL REPAIR & $ 1,301.82 533000 RENTAL OF LAND/BUILDINGS $ 51,961.25 533020 RENTAL MACHINES/EQUIPMENT $ 14,351.43 534000 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES $ : 534110 TRAINING $ 800.00 535000 COMMUNICATION $ 24,797.17 535010 ADVERTISING & PROMOTION $ 8,695.00 535020 PRINTING AND BINDING $ - 536000 TRANSPORTATION - NOT TRAVEL $ 1,700.00 560000 TRAVEL $ 22,211.34 560001 TRAVEL / CASH ADVANCE $ 4,608.78 560100 PURCHASE BULK AIRLINE TICKETS $ 23,108.00 564100 OTHER SERVICES NOC $ 4,157.27 534100 SECURITY SERVICES $ 225.00 564700 CONTR TO INDEPENDENT AGE $ 5,000.00 563200 RELIEF TO INDIVIDUALS $ 66,777.18 564300 DEATH BENEFIT PAYMENTS $ 241,141.91 $ 501,623.15 530000 ELECTRICITY $ : 531010 WATER $ z $ ° 563200 RELIEF TO INDIVIDUALS $ : 564300 DEATH BENEFIT PAYMENTS $ : $ - 575000 MACH EQUIP & MISC : 571000 BUILDINGS & IMPROVEMENTS 530000 ELECTRICITY 531010 WATER 530001 ADVANCE ELECTRIC wun 575000 MACH EQUIP & MISC - 571100 LAND & LAND IMPROVEMENTS OMB EXHIBIT E lil |