USVI Public Records

Document text

Presentation to the Senate President and Senators of the United States Virgin Islands Committee on Whole March 3, 2025 Presenter: Adlah A. Donastorg, Jr. Good Morning, esteemed Senate President and Senators, Thank you for the opportunity to address you today. | stand before you to discuss a significant legacy and the exciting potential within our beloved Virgin Islands, mainly focusing on the contribution of a remarkable family: the Lindqvists. Candace Lindavist's story is a compelling intersection of history and heritage. As a fifth-generation Virgin Islander, she carries a rich legacy that traces back to her great-great-grandfather, who migrated from Copenhagen, Denmark, to St. Croix in 1834. The Lindqvist family has deep roots in our islands, having lived under Danish and United States sovereignty, contributing to our community's tapestry. A pivotal figure in their lineage is John Lindqvist, Candace's great- grandfather. Not only was he a planter and a court judge, he also served as a Dannebrog knight and a Colonial Counsel representative. He notably lowered the Danish flag in 1917 when the United States purchased the Danish West Indies, marking a significant transition for our islands. In the 1800s, the first two generations of the Lindqvist family established themselves as planters and farmers on 233 acres of Big Cinnamon Bay in Maho Bay Quarter, St. John. By 1920, John Lindqvist moved to St. Thomas, where he became the island's veterinary surgeon. This shift began a new chapter of land acquisition led by his son, Candace's grandfather, Louis Lindqvist, who in 1945 acquired Smith Bay Beach and 204 acres of Estate Smith Bay—this became the most significant agricultural parcel on the East End of St. Thomas. Louis Lindqvist's legacy continues today through his children, Roy, June, and Kenneth Lindqvist, who inherited the Estate of Smith Bay. Kenneth recognized the importance of environmental preservation and took a Significant step in declaring the 14-acre beach property an Environmentally Protected Natural Resource. Today, parts of Smith Bay Beach have been transformed into Smith Bay Park, still partially owned by Doris Lindqvist. Currently, Doris, Candace, and Mark Lindqvist each own separate parcels of Estate Smith Bay, totaling approximately 75.44 acres. This area, the East End Quarter, has witnessed remarkable growth over the past thirty years. For instance, the Pillsbury Heights development was once a part of the large agricultural parcel acquired by Louis Lindqvist. In the last 15 years, Smith Bay has undergone impressive economic development, meeting the community's increasing needs. With much of the land still available for development, there are immense opportunities for owners and entrepreneurs to invest in this evolving economy. Ms. Lindqvist is proposing an office park in Smith Bay become a reality as part of this growth. This project would create an inviting space for conferences, meetings, events, and various activities, catering to local business professionals and visitors alike. It is essential to inspire Smith Bay residents and landowners to be enthusiastic about participating in the ongoing and future development of the greater East End community. Together, we can leverage the Lindqvist legacy, embracing our rich history while fostering new economic opportunities for our islands. With your support, we can pave the way for a thriving future that honors our past. Ms. Candace Lindqvist is asking for your approval of her rezoning application. Thank you.