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Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 1 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Organizational Chart …………………..……....………………………………………. 3 Introduction …………………..……....………………………………………………….. 4 Departmental Budget Overview ….….…………………………………..……………. 5 Divisional Budgets / FY 2027 Initiatives ………..……….…………………………. 10 Conclusion ...........................................….………..…………………………………..…. 23 Appendix I: FY 2026 Accomplishments …………………………………………..….. 27 Appendix II: FY 2026 Key Performance Indicators ………………………………… 45 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 3 5 10 15 20 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 4 INTRODUCTION Good afternoon Honorable Novelle E. Francis, Jr., Chair of the 36th Legislature’s Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance, members of the Committee, other members of the 36th Legislature present, legislative staff, and to the public listening and viewing over various forms 5 of media. I am Jean-Pierre L. Oriol, Commissioner of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (“DPNR” or “Department”); I have present with me Ms. Jozette Walker, Assistant Commissioner, Mrs. Apryl Henry, Director of Business & Administration, Ms. Janelle Chesterfield, Human Resources Technician, and in the audience, DPNR’s financial team. 10 DPNR was established by Title 3 V.I.C. § 400(a) to administer and enforce all laws pertaining to: fish and wildlife; trees and vegetation; water resources, including the protection of safe drinking water; air and water pollution; flood control; preservation of mineral and other natural resources; preservation of the archaeological, architectural, cultural and historical heritage of the United States Virgin Islands, including public libraries and museums; pesticide control; coastal lands 15 and off-shore islands and cays; mooring and anchoring of vessels within the territorial waters; earth change permits; and zoning. The enforcement powers of the department are codified under Title 12 V.I.C., as well as Title 29 V.I.C. The Department is comprised of the following divisions: 1) Business and Administrative Services 20 (DBAS); 2) Comprehensive and Coastal Zone Planning (CCZP); 3) Coastal Zone Management (CZM); 4) Environmental Enforcement (DEE); 5) Environmental Protection (DEP); 6) the Executive Office; 7) Fish and Wildlife (DFW); 8) Libraries, Archives and Museums (DLAM); 9) Permits (DP); 10) the Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation Office (VISHPO); 11) the Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas (TPPA); and 12) the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts 25 (VICA). The following departmental budget overview and funding breakdown by division and source illustrates how DPNR is leveraging a combination of general, federal, and non-appropriated funding to meet its statutory responsibilities, implement transformative projects, and support 30 sustainable development across the Territory. This financial snapshot not only reflects our core operational needs but also highlights the targeted investments that will drive measurable outcomes in infrastructure, environmental protection, cultural preservation, and service delivery in the territory. 35 40 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 5 DEPARTMENTAL BUDGET OVERVIEW The Department’s recommended FY27 budget totals $212,433,002 consisting of $9,481,921 (4.5%) from the General Fund, $13,717,158 (6.5%) from Non-Appropriated Local Funds, and $189,233,923 (89%) in federal grants. Notably, and I say this with emphasis, ~$126 million (66%) 5 of the federal funding is allocated to land acquisition and infrastructure grants that pass through DPNR and do not support departmental operations. 10 General Fund Request The Department’s FY’27 General Fund appropriation is $9,481,928 which is $17,586 short of the original OMB ceiling of $9,499,514 and a 35.3% increase from FY’26 appropriation of $7,009,487. 15 This includes $4,847,146 for Personnel and Fringe Benefits of $2,803,453 supporting 101 positions (42 Exempt, 59 Classified); $213,500 for Supplies; $983,828 for Other Services and Charges; and $634,001 for Utilities. The appropriation also covers required local match funding for several federal grants, including the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts, and supports federally mandated environmental obligations such as the Tutu Wells Mitigation Site as well as the Virgin Islands 20 Historic Preservation Commission. A summary by category is provided in the table below, followed by a detailed breakdown of Other Services and Charges. Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 6 FY’25 Budget FY’26 Budget FY ’27 Recommended Personnel $ 3,148,707 $3,208,832 $4,847,146 Fringe Benefits 1,667,760 1,685,255 2,803,453 Sub-total $4,816,467 $4,894,087 $7,650,599 Other Services & Charges $1,457,020 $1,271,514 $983,828 Supplies 223,000 238,302 213,500 Utilities 513,000 605,584 634,001 Capital Outlays 0 0 0 Sub-total $2,193,020 $2,115,400 $1,831,329 Totals $7,009,487 $7,009,487 $9,481,928 Other Services & Charges* FY ‘26 Allocation Debris Removal $ 2,000 Professional Services (Tutu Wells) 200,000 Communications 138,000 Advertising & Promotion 3,000 Printing & Binding 5,000 Travel 67,500 Travel – Purchase Bulk Airline 21,000 Transportation – Not Travel 5,500 Automotive Repair and Maintenance 28,500 Repairs & Maintenance 66,000 Rental of Land & Building 274,912 Security Services 30,000 Grants/IND Gov Agencies (VICA) 40,000 Other Services 102,416 Total Other Services: $983,828 *Includes Other Services under Miscellaneous category 5 General Fund Allocation by Division Of the twelve (12) divisions within the Department, nine (9) rely on a General Fund appropriation, with the remaining three (3) divisions (CZM, CCZP, and DFW) being funded 10 entirely by federal grants and/or other non-appropriated local funds. The following table indicates the recommended allocation of the General Fund for these divisions for the upcoming fiscal year. Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 7 Allocation of General Fund by Division Division Allocation Percentage Executive Office $797,402 8.41% Business & Administrative Services $1,962,397 20.7% Environmental Enforcement $149,616 1.58% Permits $2,265,701 23.89% Libraries, Archives & Museums $2,835,234 29.90% VI State Historic Preservation Office $162,002 1.71% Territorial Parks & Protected Areas $31,202 0.33% VI Historic Preservation Commission $200,000 2.11% Environmental Protection $666,550 7.03% Virgin Islands Council on the Arts $411,824 4.34% Total Allocation by Divisions $9,481,928 100% Federal Funds 5 Most of the Department’s funding comes from federal awards. For FY 2027, federal grant funds will contribute $189,233,923 or 89% of the overall budget to the Department’s operations. Allocated across all categories, the estimated amounts are Personnel Services at $ 10,757,879 which covers salaries and fringe benefits for 113 positions (61 exempt, 52 Classified); Supplies at 10 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 8 $2,017,864; Other Services and Charges at $146,731,634; Utilities at $29,500, Indirect Cost at $1,752,498 and Capital Outlay at $27,944,548. Below is a breakdown of federal funds by the Division. 5 Divisions Allocation Percentage Coastal Zone Management $ 7,375,335 3.90% Business & Administrative Services 639,429 0.34% Environmental Enforcement 1,129,023 0.60% Environmental Protection 126,938,453 67.08% Fish and Wildlife 5,288,657 2.79% Libraries, Archives & Museums 3,463,985 1.83% VI State Historic Preservation Office 1,501,298 0.79% Territorial Parks & Protected Areas 42,522,593 22.47% Virgin Islands Council on the Arts 375,150 .20% Total Allocation by Divisions $189,233,923 100% Non-Appropriated Local (Special) Funds 10 The FY 2027 recommendation from Non-Appropriated (Special) funds is $13,717,158 or about 6.46% of the Department’s total request. These funds, derived from fees, fines, and rentals of submerged and filled submerged lands provide support to the Executive Office, DEE, Permits, Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 9 CCZP, CZM, and DEP. Fees collected are deposited into the following funds: General, Coastal Protection, Legal Publication, Fish and Game, Underground Storage Tank, Natural Resource Reclamation, and Air Pollution Control. Collections as of May 31, 2026, are in the amount of $4,294,493; total collections of non-appropriated funds in FY 2025 were $6,231,929. 5 Breaking down the Special Funds by category, the estimated amounts are: $4,160,612 for Personnel and Fringe Benefits Services, which fund 51 positions (29 Exempt, 22 Classified); $756,483 for Supplies; $5,394,271 for Other Services and Charges, $55,000 for Utilities and $3,350,792 for Capital Outlay. The table below provides the allocation of Special funds by the Division. 10 Divisions Allocation Percentage Executive Office $6,020,672 43.9% Environmental Enforcement 2,034,787 14.83% Business & Administrative Services 447,865 3.26% Comprehensive and Coastal Zone Planning 1,320,017 9.62% Coastal Zone Management 1,409,400 10.27% Libraries, Archives & Museums 465,865 3.4% VI State Historic Preservation Office 410,866 3.00% Environmental Protection 1,467,494 10.7% Permits 140,192 1.02% Total Allocation by Divisions $13,717,158 100% Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 10 Human Capital & Labor As of June 2026, DPNR maintains a workforce of 148 active employees across its twelve divisions, consisting of 67 classified employees and 81 exempt personnel. During FY 2026, DPNR welcomed eleven (11) new hires, while experiencing five (5) resignations, four (4) retirements, and four (4) terminations. We are in the process of onboarding five (5) employees who are expected to start 5 over the next three weeks. Interviews are also underway for four (4) positions for which the posting period has closed. Additionally, DPNR anticipates releasing approximately twenty (20) new job postings by the end of July. The goal is to hire new inspectors/field personnel for our Environmental Protection and Fish and Wildlife divisions, getting some of our core responsibilities back on track. 10 As I am presenting on Human Resources, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize Mrs. Jeneva Lawrence and Mrs. Shyra Raymond-Henley, our DPNR Employees of the Year. These wonderful ladies manage the Executive Offices in their respective districts, as well as provide administrative services to other divisions within the department. I would also like to note that 15 both have served previous commissioners in DPNR, not just myself. I wanted to recognize them, say thank you for their services, and thank you for managing me over the last eight years. I would also like to recognize Ms. Jozette J. Walker and Mr. Osje Wilson on earning their advanced degrees over the last year. I applaud them for their academic success as their 20 professional growth also improves the success of the department. DPNR continues to experience human resources challenges due to salary constraints. We have developed a pathway to address retention and have made starting salaries for many positions more competitive; however, this still relies on negotiations for collective bargaining being 25 completed. We have also taken advantage of several fellowship opportunities with four (4) fellows, and several interns, currently providing services within the Department. Despite our staffing challenges, we will continue to provide essential services for our people. 30 DIVISIONAL BUDGETS The following portion of the presentation provides an overview of the roles and responsibilities of each of the 12 divisions and the estimated FY 2027 budget for each division. Here, I will focus my discussion on the major initiatives that each division will embark upon for FY 2027. 35 Business & Administrative Services (DBAS) The Division of Business and Administrative Services manages budgeting, personnel, payroll, revenue collection, and fiscal matters across all funding sources. Below is the estimated FY2027 budget breakdown for the division. 40 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 11 Division: DBAS # of Personnel Existing: 25 Funded Vacant: 0 Budget By Funding Source General Fund Federal Fund Special Fund Personnel $539,035 $415,000 $303,000 Fringe 342,978 224,429 144,865 Supplies 65,000 Debris Removal 2,000 Rep & Maintenance 15,000 Rental of Land/Bldg. 238,383 Communications 100,000 Travel 25,000 Other Services NOC 5,000 Utilities/Single Payer 630,001 Totals $1,962,397 $639,429 $447,865 Comprehensive & Coastal Zone Planning (CCZP) The Division of Comprehensive and Coastal Zone Planning develops long-range plans and 5 policies to guide the Territory’s physical, economic, and social development. It oversees zoning map amendments, subdivisions, planned area developments, and group dwellings, ensuring alignment with established planning standards. CCZP also serves as a planning resource for government agencies and the public, coordinating capital projects and planning efforts across sectors. Below is the estimated FY27 budget breakdown by category: 10 Division: CCZP # Of Personnel Existing: 3 Funded Vacant: 0 Budget By Funding Source General Fund Federal Fund Special Fund Personnel 285,000 Fringe 149,374 Supplies 40,000 Prof Services 50,000 Training 20,000 Advertising & Promotion 20,000 Trans. Not Travel 20,000 Travel 20,000 Other Services 715,643 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 12 Totals $1,320,017 CCZP FY27 INITIATIVES In FY 2027, the Comprehensive and Coastal Zone Planning (CCZP) Division will continue advancing the Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan (USVI Comp Plan) through proposed amendments to key sections of the zoning law. CCZP will continue to collaborate with other 5 divisions and agencies on zoning amendments related to special areas such as Agricultural Zones and Historic Districts. To support public understanding and compliance, the Division plans to host zoning law training sessions and develop a visual user guide to help residents and developers interpret and apply zoning regulations effectively. 10 CCZP also plans to launch a Planning internship, implementing a two-pronged workforce approach that includes an early-exposure internship program and structured on-the-job training. A key step will be the creation of the U. S. Virgin Islands Nontraditional Planner’s Training Program, designed to provide hands-on, real-life training for interns and new planners. 15 Coastal Zone Management (CZM) The Division of Coastal Zone Management works to protect and enhance the Territory’s coastal environment while supporting responsible economic development. CZM regulates development in the coastal zone’s first tier, manages the St. Croix East End Marine Park, oversees submerged and filled land leases, and implements policies to protect marine ecosystems—particularly coral 20 reefs—through erosion control and non-point source pollution programs. The Division is funded by two NOAA Cooperative Agreements, supplemented by fee and penalty collections used to meet the required non-federal match. These funds support 25 positions dedicated to fulfilling the program's objectives. Below is the FY27 funding breakdown: 25 Division: CZM # Of Personnel Existing: 17 Funded Vacant: 7 Budget By Funding Source General Fund Federal Fund Special Fund Personnel $857,757 $625,873 Fringe 442,607 328,527 Supplies 293,328 70,000 Repair & Maintenance 0 10,000 Rental of Land/Bld 0 40,000 Communication 0 20,000 Professional Services 140,000 50,000 Capital Outlay 80,000 0 Travel 124,880 30,000 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 13 Sub-Grants 5,003,450 0 Other Services 111,853 235,000 Indirect Cost 321,460 0 Totals $7,375,335 $1,409,400 CZM FY27 INITIATIVES In FY2027, the Coastal Zone Management (CZM) Division remains focused on executing projects from the Watershed Management Plans. The Division will execute in collaboration with local and federal partners, plans focused on flooding, erosion and sediment control in communities across 5 the Territory. These projects will tackle identified problem areas and implement solutions aimed at reducing repetitive flooding, erosion, and water quality protection through sediment control. Under a grant award with NOAA, the Division is advancing a new geospatial platform with technical assistance from NOAA; this project will integrate data from across the territory into an accessible GIS platform that will enable the Division and its partners to visualize data layers to 10 help with decision making aligning with the land and water use and planning. Environmental Enforcement (DEE) The Division of Environmental Enforcement serves as the law enforcement arm of the Department, tasked with enforcing boating safety, permitting laws, and protecting the Territory’s 15 natural resources. DEE also supports Homeland Security efforts through land and marine patrols and maintains a zero-tolerance policy on illegal drugs, assisting federal and local agencies as needed. The Division operates with a team of 10 staff members, including nine active enforcement officers. Below is the FY27 funding breakdown. 20 Division: DEE # Of Personnel Existing: 9 Funded Vacant: 8 Budget By Funding Source General Fund Federal Fund Special Fund Personnel $ 96,507 $356,282 $662,453 Fringe 53,109 178,032 367,486 Supplies 0 151,626 331,297 Repair & Maintenance 0 0 44,740 Capital Outlay 0 0 219,642 Communication 0 0 35,000 Travel 0 0 61,909 Other Services 0 99,815 252,260 Training 0 0 20,000 Utilities 0 0 40,000 Indirect 0 343,268 0 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 14 Totals $149,616 $1,129,023 $2,034,787 DEE FY27 INITIATIVES The Division of Environmental Enforcement, in partnership with Online Mooring LLC, is launching a new electronic boating registration card system. These digital cards, accessible via 5 mobile devices or as downloadable files, contain key registration details such as vessel ID, owner information, and expiration dates. Designed to improve convenience and enforcement efficiency, the e-card will be issued immediately upon registration approval and will serve as valid proof of registration until the physical decal is received and affixed to the vessel. This initiative reflects the Division’s commitment to modernizing services and offering boaters a timely, user-friendly, 10 and environmentally responsible alternative to traditional paper registration. Also in FY 2027, DEE will pursue enhancements at each of its marine terminals, in Krum Bay, St. Thomas, and Gallows Bay, St. Croix, to serve as marine enforcement base of operations. These enhancements will be pursued using USDA-Community Facilities Program (CFP) awards issued 15 to the Department. Environmental Protection (DEP) The primary objective of the Division of Environmental Protection (DEP) is to protect and 20 conserve the Territory’s natural resources while minimizing residents' exposure to environmental hazards. DEP staff work to implement strategic measures that safeguard human health and the environment, focusing on key priorities such as clean air and water, land conservation, and chemical safety. Below is the FY2027 funding breakdown: 25 Division: DEP # Of Personnel Existing: 18 Funded Vacant: 27 Budget By Funding Source General Fund Federal Fund Special Fund Personnel $299,711 $2,120,795 $386,188 Fringe 127,839 1,105,346 195,180 Supplies 17,000 607,310 59,500 Professional Services 200,000 1,118,700 0 Repairs & Maintenance 0 0 15,000 Auto Repairs & Maintenance 5,000 52,500 15,000 Communication 0 0 16,000 Advertising & Promotion 3,000 13,500 5,000 Transportation – Not Travel 3,000 0 10,000 Travel 5,000 109,010 60,000 Bulk Ticket Purchase 6,000 23,000 0 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 15 Sub Grants 0 91,339,807 0 Other Services 0 29,320,795 660,626 Training 0 0 30,000 Rental Machines/Equipment 0 0 15,000 Indirect Cost 0 766,261 0 Capital Outlay 0 361,429 0 Totals $666,550 $126,938,453 1,467,494 DEP FY27 INITIATIVES In FY 2027, the Division of Environmental Protection (DEP) will strategically focus on recruitment and training to ensure all programs are staffed for timely permit processing and are fully trained 5 for regulatory enforcement and community education outreach. DEP will also continue to focus on eliminating its high-risk designation to improve program operations. Reimbursement packages through FY 2022 were submitted to the EPA for review in May 2026. In addition, we have updated in-house SOPPs and are continuing staff training for 10 employees, in accordance with the requirements set by the USEPA. Executive Office (EO) The Executive Office coordinates the strategic planning and operations of DPNR. The Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, Media Relations, Procurement 15 Office, and Human Resources all fall under the Executive Office. Below is a breakdown of the requested budget for FY27. Division: Exec. Off # Of Personnel Existing: 6 Funded Vacant: 2 Budget By Funding Source General Fund Federal Fund Special Fund Personnel $535,000 $355,000 Fringe 235,402 131,076 Supplies 12,000 80,000 Rental of Land/Bldg. 0 499,596 Rental/Mach & Equip 0 20,000 Prof. Services 0 750,000 Communication 0 20,000 Ad & Promotion 0 5,000 Printing & Binding 0 5,000 Transp. – Not Travel 0 10,000 Travel 15,000 30,000 Other Services 0 1,000,000 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 16 Electricity 0 15,000 Machinery & Equip. 0 3,100,000 Totals $797,402 6,020,672 EO FY27 INITIATIVES In FY27, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) will continue advancing several major FEMA-funded capital projects that restore vital public facilities, strengthen community services, and preserve the Territory’s historic and cultural assets. Most notably, the 5 Department anticipates the long-awaited reopenings of the Dr. Charles W. Turnbull Regional Library, the Enid M. Baa facility as the permanent home of the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts, as well as a visitor welcome center, limited library services, and the Made in the USVI Pop-Up Shop), and the Athalie McFarlane Petersen Library. DPNR also anticipates completion of the renovation of its St. John Office, restoring critical departmental services and community access 10 on the island. Progress will also continue on the FEMA-funded restoration of Fort Frederik, with architectural and engineering design approvals currently ongoing with FEMA and construction bids expected to be advertised upon finalization. Fort Christian remains in the architectural and engineering design phase as the Department continues to move this important historic preservation project forward. 15 Fish & Wildlife (DFW) The Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) implements scientific and technical assistance projects for conservation to enhance the natural heritage of the Virgin Islands. DFW completes Territorially mandated work to restore habitats and preserve indigenous species using federal 20 grants apportioned by Congress annually to US jurisdictions along with competitive grants awarded to the Division. All projects are based on long-term strategic plans for safeguarding wildlife and marine resources. Division: DFW # Of Personnel Existing: 20 Funded Vacant: 12 Budget By Funding Source General Fund Federal Fund Special Fund Personnel $2,197,259 Fringe 1,075,807 Supplies 199,343 Indirect Cost 31,998 Rental of Land & Bldg 118,740 Other Services 1,622,112 Utilities 29,500 Capital Outlay 13,888 Totals $5,288,657 25 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 17 DFW FY27 INITIATIVES The Division of Fish and Wildlife will continue protecting the Territory’s fish, wildlife, and natural landscapes through a balanced focus on conservation, fisheries management, public access, education, and science-based monitoring. In FY27, DFW will expand Boating Infrastructure Program improvements, including ADA-accessible kayak launches, adaptive 5 boating facilities, fish cleaning stations, monofilament recycling stations, educational signage, and maintenance of boating access sites throughout the Territory. These investments will improve safe and equitable access to marine and coastal resources. DFW will also strengthen fisheries research and data collection for recreational and commercial fisheries, including key species such as dolphinfish, sharks, and ballyhoo. Data from sportfishing 10 tournaments, fishing ports, and recreational fishing activity will support local fisheries management, licensing programs, and collaboration with academic and federal partners. The Division will advance the 2025 State Wildlife Action Plan by focusing on priority species, habitats, wildlife corridors, and Conservation Opportunity Areas. This includes monitoring offshore cays and seabird colonies, surveying Species of Greatest Conservation Need, and 15 supporting habitat conservation planning for sea turtles and native plants. Finally, DFW will continue expanding youth education, citizen science, and public stewardship through marine biology programs, wildlife workshops, guided kayak tours, birdwatching activities, and partnerships with schools, UVI, conservation organizations, fishers, and ecotourism operators. Together, these efforts will improve access, strengthen local data, guide 20 conservation investments, and cultivate the next generation of conservation leaders. Libraries, Archives, and Museums (DLAM) The Division of Libraries, Archives, and Museums (DLAM) encompasses the Virgin Islands Public Library System, the territorial archives, and the Fort Museum Program, delivering vital 25 services in education, cultural preservation, and public engagement. DLAM manages five (5) public libraries across the Territory, including the Dr. Charles W. Turnbull Regional Library, Enid M. Baa Library, Florence Williams Public Library, Athalie McFarlane Petersen Library, and the Elaine Ione Sprauve Library & Cultural Museum offering access to information, research, and cultural programming. 30 The Museum Unit plays a critical role in the preserving and interpreting the rich history, arts and cultural heritage of the US Virgin Islands. DLAM is also responsible for the stewardship of Fort Christian and Fort Frederik National Historic Landmark sites, as well as their extensive collection of historical artifacts. These sites serve not only as cultural anchors but also as event venues for 35 government and private functions, offering a unique setting for public engagement and community use. Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 18 Division: DLAM # Of Personnel Existing: 14 Funded Vacant: 8 Budget By Funding Source General Fund Federal Fund Special Fund Personnel $1,670,922 0 $75,000 Fringe 998,312 0 46,398 Supplies 55,000 111,806 140,686 Rep & Maintenance 40,000 11,400 0 Auto Rep & Maintenance 5,000 0 0 Debris Removal 0 0 30,000 Security Services 30,000 0 50,000 Communications 20,000 0 27,631 Transp. - Not Travel 1,000 25,000 30,000 Advertising & Promotion 0 0 10,000 Travel 10,000 0 25,000 Printing & Binding 5,000 0 0 Professional Services 0 1,665,000 0 Other Services 10,000 0 Capital Projects 0 1,640,779 31,150 Totals $2,835,234 $3,463,985 $465,865 DLAM FY27 INITIATIVES In FY 2027, DLAM will continue providing educational, cultural, and literacy programming for residents of all ages, including toddler programs, story times, history lectures, STEM activities, book clubs, family movies, school outreach, SAT and workforce learning support, financial 5 literacy, probate education, grief support, and conflict resolution education. The Library for the Blind and Physically Challenged will continue expanding Talking Books services for adults, children, and students throughout the territory. It is our intention to use the bulk of the 35% increase in the General Fund appropriation to prioritize vacancies in the this division, reopen the library facilities and implement all of the initiatives listed above at each of the facilities. 10 Preservation will remain a central FY27 priority. DLAM will continue digitizing the Territorial Archives through new and existing partnerships, improving the care of special collections, training staff in emergency preparedness, and addressing collection and facility vulnerabilities. For the Fort Museums, DLAM will use completed conceptual design work to pursue funding for fabrication and installation, improve revenue-generating operations, expand guided tours, and 15 strengthen exhibitions in both districts. Additional operational support will allow curatorial staff to focus on collections, exhibits, interpretation, and the visitor experience. Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 19 Permits (BP) The Division of Building Permits is responsible for reviewing and issuing construction-related permits, including those for floodplain management, renewable energy and structure demolition, while ensuring all building activities across the Territory comply with local and national codes. 5 Below is the FY2027 budget breakdown for the division: Division: Permits # Of Personnel Existing: 18 Funded Vacant: 6 Budget By Funding Source General Fund Federal Fund Special Fund Personnel $1,356,587 $65,000 Fringe 841,114 40,192 Supplies 35,500 35,000 Rep & Maintenance 6,000 0 Auto Rep & Maintenance 15,000 0 Sub-Grantees 0 0 Transp. Not Travel 1,500 0 Travel 10,000 0 Other Services 0 0 Indirect Cost 0 0 Totals $2,265,701 $140,192 BP FY27 INITIATIVES In FY2027, the Division of Permits will continue advancing modernization, interdepartmental 10 coordination, regulatory compliance, and customer service through targeted improvements to the permitting and enforcement process. A major priority will be the continued expansion of the e-permitting platform to improve transparency, accountability, and efficiency. Planned enhancements include real-time permit tracking, streamlined reviewer workflows, integrated inspection reporting, faster correction cycles, and plan review tools that support more accurate 15 code compliance findings. The Division will also continue onboarding additional departments and regulatory divisions into the e-permitting system to create a more unified review process. This cross-divisional integration will help reduce delays, eliminate duplicative reviews, improve coordination among agencies, and support consistent application of codes and regulatory requirements. 20 To strengthen enforcement, the Division will develop and implement a standardized operating policy for identifying, documenting, tracking, and resolving violations. This will establish clear Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 20 procedures for inspectors and participating divisions, improve accountability, and allow violations to be tracked through the e-permitting platform from notice through resolution. The Division will also continue its participation in the Floodplain Management NFIP-CAPSSE Program to support federal compliance, staff training, data tracking, and community resilience. Together, these initiatives will modernize permitting operations, improve regulatory consistency, 5 and support safer, more efficient development throughout the Territory. Territorial Parks & Protected Areas (TPPA) The Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas is responsible for the supervision, management, and regulation of all public parks, recreational lands, and marine parks across the 10 Territory, as designated by regulation or the Commissioner. The Division is mandated to establish the Virgin Islands Territorial Parks System, which will serve as a unified framework that promotes the history, culture, conservation, recreation, and wellness of the people of the Virgin Islands. 15 Division: TPPA # Of Personnel Existing: 8 Funded Vacant: 0 Budget By Funding Source General Fund Federal Fund Special Fund Personnel $11,600 $866,307 Fringe 7,602 423,519 Supplies 2,000 617,451 Other Services 0 11,905,088 Professional Services 0 957,580 Sub Grants 0 1,770,110 Indirect Cost 0 289,511 Capital Projects 0 25,107,259 Travel 0 585,768 Bulk Airline 10,000 0 Totals $31,202 $42,522,593 TPPA FY27 INITIATIVES In FY2027, the Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas will continue advancing the 20 buildout of the Virgin Islands Territorial Parks System through planning, public education, community outreach, mapping, trail development, and strategic partnerships. The Division will use existing territorial planning documents, including watershed management plans and the Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan, to guide park development and strengthen eligibility for federal and other grant opportunities and public-private partnerships, while looking for 25 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 21 opportunities to generate income to support the Park System. We will also finalize the Territorial Outdoor Recreation Plan, which will allow us to access additional federal funding in support of management efforts. The Division will expand public education materials, classroom engagement, outdoor learning opportunities, and community events to connect residents and visitors with the Territory’s 5 natural areas. Grant funding will also be leveraged to support staff training, temporary fellows through NOAA and UVI, and the addition of up to three Rangers to improve regular site presence, maintenance, public interaction, and coordination with partner organizations. TPPA will also continue work under the NOAA Climate Resilience Regional Challenge, including hosting the annual All Partners Meeting with workshops and site visits to build capacity, 10 strengthen collaboration, and advance climate resilience across the Territorial Parks System. Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) The Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation Office is committed to preserving and protecting the Territory’s archaeological sites and historic built towns, sites, and places. This mission is carried out through consultation with federal, state, and local agencies, public education and 15 outreach, and regulatory oversight of development activities that may impact archaeological and historic resources. VISHPO also supports and sponsors projects that advance historic preservation and archaeology throughout the Virgin Islands. In collaboration with the Virgin Islands Historic Preservation Commission, SHPO helps safeguard the historic and cultural built assets of the Territory’s Historic District Towns and the 20 Virgin Islands Registry of Historic Buildings, Places, and Sites. These efforts preserve the distinct character, charm, and architectural integrity of the Virgin Islands, which is a uniquely historic destination within the United States of America and the Caribbean. Division: VISHPO # Of Personnel Existing: 7 Funded Vacant: 1 Budget By Funding Source General Fund Federal Fund Special Fund Personnel $141,834 $324,556 0 Fringe 78,752 169,683 0 Supplies 22,000 37,000 0 Repairs & Maintenance 5,000 0 0 Auto Rep & Maintenance 3,500 0 0 Professional Services 0 6,807 0 Communication 6,000 0 0 Advertising & Promotion 0 0 2,500 Travel 2,500 0 0 Bulk Airline Ticket 5,000 0 Sub-Grants 0 0 408,366 Other Services 97,416 222,059 0 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 22 Capital Outlay 0 741,193 0 Totals $362,002 $1,501,298 $410,866 SHPO FY27 INITIATIVES A major FY2027 focus will be advancing the Saint Croix National Heritage Area onboarding process with the National Park Service, including management planning, federal coordination, stakeholder engagement, and development of an implementation framework to support heritage 5 tourism, education, and economic development. VISHPO will also update the Virgin Islands Statewide Historic Preservation Plan, modernize and digitize archaeological files and reports, expand historic site layers on the MapGeo platform, and launch the St. Thomas–St. John District archaeological storage, laboratory, and museum facility to improve curation, research, public access, and project review. 10 SHPO will continue strengthening federal and regional partnerships, including collaboration with the Puerto Rico SHPO, and will pursue additional grant opportunities to support preservation of historic properties throughout the Territory. Building on the Emergency Supplemental Historic Preservation Fund grant, which has supported repairs to more than 50 historic buildings damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, VISHPO will continue assisting 15 property owners and supporting the Virgin Islands Historic Preservation Commission. With expanded staff capacity, VISHPO will enhance surveys, inventory management, development review, public engagement, and the effective stewardship of historic districts and sites as part of the Territory’s sustainable development, tourism, and cultural heritage strategy. 20 Virgin Islands Council on the Arts (VICA) The Virgin Islands Council on the Arts is dedicated to enriching the Territory’s cultural landscape by preserving, supporting, and promoting excellence in the arts. VICA ensures that the arts remain accessible to all Virgin Islanders through strategic leadership and community 25 engagement. Funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, with matching appropriations from the Government of the Virgin Islands, VICA administers a competitive grant program that supports individual artists, arts organizations, schools, and community-based groups across the Territory. 30 Division: VICA # Of Personnel Existing: 3 Funded Vacant: 0 General Fund Federal Fund Special Fund Personnel $195,950 0 Fringe 118,345 0 Supplies 5,000 0 Communication 12,000 0 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 23 Grants/Ind Gov’t Agencies 40,000 0 Rental of Land/Bldg 36,529 0 Other Services 0 $375,150 Utilities 4,000 0 Totals $411,824 $375,150 VICA FY27 INITIATIVES In FY2027, the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts will continue shaping its programs through inclusive, territory-wide community engagement. Strategic planning will be informed by 5 surveys, workshops, funded events, exhibitions, radio outreach, email feedback, and direct engagement with artists, grantees, educators, arts organizations, UVI, and the broader public. VICA will continue strengthening the Territory’s arts infrastructure through its Art Spaces on St. Thomas and at the Dorsch Cultural Center on St. Croix. These spaces will support exhibitions, performances, artist networking, cultural programming, technical assistance, grant support, 10 marketing assistance, and professional development. The return of “Dorsch After Dark” will provide a monthly platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their work and connect with the community. Arts education, cultural preservation, and creative entrepreneurship will remain central priorities. In FY2027, VICA will expand workshops, artist residencies, school-based 15 programming, intergenerational learning, Poetry Out Loud, Made in the USVI Pop-up Shops, and cultural programs such as the remake of Playing in the Ring in partnership with the Reichhold Center for the Arts. We will be opening a permanent Made in the USVI Store to provide year- round visibility, sales opportunities, and sustainable income support for local artists, authors, craftspeople, and manufacturers. All of this can be experienced at our new location in the Enid 20 M. Baa facility at the start of the fiscal year. CONCLUSION The Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) achieved several significant milestones in FY 2026, reflecting our ongoing commitment to service, stewardship, and 25 sustainability. For ease of reference, a detailed summary of accomplishments by division is provided in the Appendix to this testimony. Our major accomplishments for the year thus far reflect our heightened interest in securing property for research and to protect biodiversity while actively mapping and developing trails for public enjoyment. Here are some highlights: Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 24 • The successful acquisition of 4 properties to DPNR’s real estate portfolio include: the CMCA Building at No. 10 Strand Street Frederiksted (0.168 acres - $1.675M), Lowry Hill (53.45 acres - $940K), Perseverance (139.8 acres - $5.59M), and the Mercurio Property (0.6 acres - $500k ) for a total combined acreage of 193.97 ACRES and value of $8,705,000; 5 • An additional 7 property acquisitions currently under contract including properties in Fish Bay (9.6 acres - $400K), Petronella (75.74 acres - $980K), Mt. Welcome (5.058 acres - $130k), Estate Lerkenlund (2.33 acres - $1.3M), Great Pond (294 acres, $7.7M), HayPenny ($1.3M – 38.24 acres) and Colquohoun (14.238 acres - $1.3M) with closings to be scheduled prior to the end of FY’26 for a total combined acreage of 439.21 ACRES 10 and value of $13,110,000 for conservation purposes; • The creation of over 4 miles of hiking trails connecting and providing access to the south shore of Altona Lagoon and over Lowry Hill, and the mapping and creation of trails for the 40 acres of Sprat Point, Water Island In addition to securing properties for the preservation and enjoyment on behalf of the people 15 of the Virgin Islands, we also had the following successes during this fiscal year: • The acquisition of a warehouse building and two acres of raw land to be converted into DPNR’s future office space in Willams Delight, St. Croix • Preparing A&E design plans for the Willams Delight office spaces, with bid documents by September 2026 20 • The Planning Office’s Zoning Text Amendments contract at 38% completion, focusing on identified high priority sections: Section 225 (Definitions), Section 228 (Table of Permitted Uses), Section 235 (Administration and Enforcement), Section 240 (Penalty for Violation), and Section 242 (Fees) • The release of the Historic Districts Guide, providing the public with updated 25 information, including present day photos, of compliance within the historic districts • The cleanup of Fort Segarra on Water Island ($157k) • The capital improvements to the Gustav Quetel Fish Market ($326k) • The processing of over 2500 development applications across all divisions; over 2900 inspections performed; 250 Section 106 reviews completed and $150,00+ in violations 30 collected. • Promulgated rules and regulations for our Recreational Fishing License program, which is projected to generate ~$150k of non-resident revenue after full rollout • In accordance with Act No. 6471, we drafted and had promulgated rules and regulations for aquaculture and mariculture 35 As this is my final budget hearing of the Bryan Roach Administration, I would like to take this opportunity to recap some of our MONUMENTAL accomplishments in the prior seven (7) years: • DPNR completed and had signed into law Act No. 8981, the Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan framework • Modernized permitting processes with electronic platforms in CCZP, CZM, DEE and our 40 Permits divisions Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 25 • Drafted and had promulgated Act 8818 updating our Building Code regulations and creating Flood regulations, bringing us into compliance with national standards • Created and opened the St. Croix East End Marine Park Visitors Center to the public • Assisted with the promulgation and implementation of Act Nos. 8609 and 8610 creating the Territorial Parks and Protected Areas System, the Territorial Parks Trust, and 5 establishing the Division of Territorial Parks & Protected Areas; we also secured over $70M in federal funding within our first two years for administration and operations • Ended the lengthy 20-year moratorium on the issuance of fishing licenses and have onboarded over 50 new commercial fishers across the territory • Provided over $10M in direct assistance to commercial and recreational fishers across the 10 territory • Assisted with the promulgation and implementation of Act No. 8855, the Invasive Species Eradication Act, and funded the removal of thousands of red-tailed boas • Provided over $8M in direct assistance to owners of historic properties and saw the restoration of over 50 properties throughout our Historic Districts 15 • Execution of Act No. 8402, the relocation of the King Christian bust, a symbol from our colonial past, and centralizing the Freedom statue in Emancipation Garden, St. Thomas • Removed ~ 800 tons of cumulative marine debris from Krum Bay, which for 30+ years has spoiled our navigable waters • Creation of the Made in the USVI Pop-Up Shops, increasing the profile and sales for Virgin 20 Islands made products • Executed Act No. 8424, producing and facilitating the sale of the VI Madras, which has been woven into many VI fashion and retail products • Secured over $150M in federal funding for our utilities (WAPA and WMA) to make improvements to our public water systems 25 • Drafted and implemented Pesticide Control regulations, which also creates ~ $400k annually in revenue, without taxing the businesses in the USVI • Served as the Incident Command for the false lead and copper emergency, which forced the improved treatment of public water distribution, reducing the concentration of brown water. 30 I would also like to remind everyone that each groundbreaking ceremony, ribbon cutting, and capital improvement project completed throughout the Territory first required environmental review and compliance under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The Department successfully carried out these critical reviews, as well as monitored the construction projects, while operating with only minimal increases to existing staffing resources, and we will continue 35 to do so. These accomplishments are a direct result of the hard work and dedication of the 148 men and women of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources, across all divisions.* I extend my deepest gratitude for their service and commitment to our mission. Their collective efforts allow us (the people of the US Virgin Islands) to foster economic growth while safeguarding the 40 Territory’s natural and cultural resources for future generations. Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 26 Senators, I would be remiss if I did not mention a major initiative that I was unable to accomplish over the last eight years - developing a permanent office in the St. Thomas district. DPNR was able to secure interest in the old navy barracks building in Estate Sub Base previously used by WAPA as its offices; we were able to have 100% of the A&E designs and bid documents developed; and we were able to do the selective demolition and abatement of the structure. Due 5 to inflation, what was originally planned as a $4.5M renovation, the projected cost has now doubled. In an effort to realize this long-term goal, DPNR has submitted several applications to different federal programs to assist offsetting the cost of the rehabilitation, and we are still awaiting responses to those applications; moreover, we have allocated approximately $4M of our generated revenue towards this project. Senators, I mention this as I urge you to consider 10 providing funding towards the renovation of this building. In the St. Thomas district, DPNR pays over $350,000 per year in rent, which is likely to increase very soon. If we were to move into our own facility, we could reduce operating expenses by 72% still leaving $100k per year towards maintenance. The renovation would take approximately two (2) years, and we would be rent free thereafter. It would also result in the restoration of a historically significant building, and 15 with the Crown Bay redevelopment initiative being undertaken by the VI Port Authority (VIPA), it would restore a blighted building in the district. Earlier this year, Act No. 9066 was passed where the central government sold submerged and filled submerged lands to VIPA for $7M; pursuant to Section 4(a)(3) of the Act, $3M was to be placed in the St. Thomas Capital Improvement Fund. I am requesting that the 36th Legislature allocate this $3M to DPNR, which 20 would allow us to undertake Phase II of this project - the replacement of the damaged roof, removal and replacement of all doors and window, sealing and painting of the building, and roughing in utilities into the building. If we were to receive these funds, we would be able to put this phase out to bid IMMEDIATELY. I implore you to consider this, as this new office space is what the employees of DPNR deserve. 25 In closing, I want to thank the 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands for the opportunity to present the Department of Planning & Natural Resources FY 2027 budget. With your continued support and our federal partnerships, DPNR is well-positioned to maintain operational efficiency, restore essential services, and build upon the foundation of a stronger, more resilient Virgin Islands that the Bryan-Roach Administration leaves for the incoming administration. 30 The road ahead will present challenges, especially those related to funding—but the staff of DPNR stand ready to meet them head-on. Thank you, and we welcome your questions. Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 27 APPENDIX I: FISCAL YEAR 2026 ACCOMPLISHMENTS COMPREHENSIVE AND COASTAL ZONE PLANNING 5 The division gained one Planning Technician during the Fiscal Year enabling it to continue its day-to-day work and in FY ‘26 conducted 7 bill reviews, 2,218 business license zoning reviews, 312 Earth Change zoning reviews, one Major CZM permit review, 65 Zoning Certification letters, 18 public hearings, 18 recommendation reports, issued 15 Cease and Desist Orders, and presented six applications before the Legislative Committee of the Whole. 10 38% completion of Zoning Text Amendments Contract, focusing on identified high priority sections: Section 225 (Definitions), Section 228 (Table of Permitted Uses), Section 235 (Administration and Enforcement), Section 240 (Penalty for Violation), and Section 242 (Fees). The division began implementing its two-pronged workforce approach by creating structured on-the-job refresher training for its current practicing planners. A key step was the creation of 15 the U. S. Virgin Islands Nontraditional Planner’s Training Program, designed to provide hands-on, real-life training. COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT The Division of Coastal Zone Management saw the following activity across the first three quarters of 2026: 20 • 59 Outreach activities resulting in approximately 1,234 community members being reached. • 80 Minor Land Applications • 21 Modifications 25 • 15 Repair and Maintenance Requests • 10 Certificates of Completion • 11 Cease and Desist Orders issued, • 8 Warning Notices issued • 8 Notices of Violation issued 4 pending 30 • $142,664.96 in fines collected • 14 Public hearings covering 18 projects • 13 Decision meetings covering 19 projects • 37 Federal Consistency Projects 35 The CZM Division kicked off the earth change reform project and has achieved preliminary outcomes in the scope of work. CZM is on the brink of executing an MOA with the NOAA Office of Coastal Management (OCM) Geospatial Team to provide technical assistance in the development of a comprehensive 40 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 28 geospatial platform for the territory. This effort is being coordinated with the other Divisions in DPNR, the GIS Division of the Lieutenant Governor's Office, the Department of Public Works, and the University of the Virgin Islands. CZM was successful in releasing for vendor solicitation a scope for work for engineering and 5 design services aimed at the restoration of the Great Pond Lagoon on St Croix. A multi-year effort thus far supported by community, government and academia. The CZM Division completed the training of 16 persons in Wetland Delineation including 11 DPNR team members and 5 external partners. This course facilitated by the Wetland Technical 10 Institute improves DPNR and territorial agency capacity. In FY2026, CZM in collaboration with the University of the Virgin Islands and funding support from NOAA, completed a wave climate analysis for the territory, the analysis dissected data collected over a period of 44 years from various sources and provided an empirical analysis of 15 wave climate conditions across the territory. The report provides a framework for further work on beach stability, erosion management, coastal infrastructure design and other policy and planning implications. 20 Figure: Directionality Index or Resultant Vector Length (RVL). High RVL (close to 1) signifies likely unidirectional longshore transport. Low RVL (close to 0) reflects a multidirectional wave forcing that likely promotes coastal stability. 25 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 29 Wetland Delineation course participants and instructors ENVIRONMENTAL ENFORCEMENT 5 The Division of Environmental Enforcement registered vessels and issued permits as follows in Fiscal Year 2026: 10 • Boats & Watercraft 2814 • Mooring Registration 428 • Anchoring 3 • Cruising Permit 0 • Multi-Vessel Moorings 23 15 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 30 The National Safe Boating Program was promoted this year as we provided a free boating safety class for the public with the help of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary-USVI Flotilla. Following the 5 course, participants were eligible to take a test and obtain a certificate of completion. This course was held at the Florence A. Williams Public Library. At the Altona Lagoon, officers offered boaters a free safety inspection, and information was given to the public for Boating Safety week in the month of May. 10 Additionally, the Division partnered with the Virgin Islands Police Department Marine Unit to provide a boating safety presentation for employees at the Diageo facility, reinforcing the importance of boating safety, emergency preparedness, and responsible operation on the water. 15 EXECUTIVE OFFICE The Department continues to advance critical infrastructure upgrades across its divisions: • *Charles W. Turnbull Regional Library (St. Thomas): The major capital repair work is completed, and some punchlist items remain before the facility can be reopened to the public in FY 2027. 20 • *Enid Baa Library: The renovation of the facility will be completed in August, and we will open the facility to the public in September. Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 31 • *Athalie M. Petersen Library (St. Croix): The capital repairs are about 65% completed and the work is on-schedule to be completed by October 2026. • *St. John Satellite Office: The completion of the capital repairs is scheduled for August, with reopening to the public set for September 2026. • Williams Delight Office: In November 2025, DPNR began efforts to acquire the former 5 Sunshine Supermarket building to convert into permanent office space in St. Croix. We closed on the purchase in June 2026, and the A&E drawings are 90% complete. We expect to have the project out for bid by October 2026 and hopefully be able to move staff into the new office spaces by the start of Fiscal Year 2028. *All of the above-listed facilities are scheduled to be opened to the public before the end of the 10 calendar year. FISH AND WILDLIFE The Division of Fish and Wildlife addresses short-term and long-term challenges for fish and 15 wildlife resources in the Territory by providing training opportunities for staff to provide technical guidance and present our scientific work to national and international committees and agencies. The fourth issue of our, ‘Go Wild, Go Fish,’ reports in plain language some of the work that the division is doing: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/b1d82afda3.html#page/1 20 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 32 Over the last year, the Division used its Reef Responsible platform to engage more than 450 fairgoers at the St. Croix Ag Fair in February 2026 and presented Reef Responsible concepts with games and giveaways at multiple events across the Territory. 5 Staff continued to serve as weighmasters at a dozen sport fishing tournaments, sponsored by the VI Game Fishing Club, CORE, and Golden Hook Fishing Club, collecting data for continuing long-term studies of trends in fish harvested during tournaments. Those data are used in stock assessments for pelagic fish. 10 The first use of birth control for rats was conducted on two offshore cays to protect sea birds and plant seeds in St. Thomas, and plants were mapped along a seven-mile wildlife corridor in St. Croix. Among our day-to-day work, DFW taught 800 free archery lessons, and conducted 275 sea life 15 surveys to assess fish stocks in the territory, registered over 400 commercial and recreational fishers, funded more than 400 kayak tours, We provided technical assistance on over 120 development applications, and issued eighty (80) research, retention, and collection permits over FY 2026. Additionally, the Division consistently 20 hosted two to four interns per quarter across the Territory. 25 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 33 LIBRARIES, ARCHIVES AND MUSEUMS In Fiscal Year 2026, the Division of Libraries, Archives, and Museums (DLAM) continued its mission to educate, preserve, and inspire by expanding access to educational resources, digital services, cultural programming, and historical collections throughout the Virgin Islands. Through libraries, archives, museums, and community partnerships, DLAM advanced literacy, 5 workforce readiness, lifelong learning, and cultural preservation while ensuring equitable access to information and educational opportunities for residents of all ages. Literacy and community engagement remained central to the Division's work. The Florence Williams Public Library strengthened its role as a community gathering place through expanded operating hours and a diverse range of educational and cultural programs. Activities included 10 bilingual early childhood literacy programming, author presentations, Virgin Islands History Month lectures, college readiness workshops, youth enrichment activities, technology access, and community-centered events celebrating Virgin Islands culture and heritage. Through school visits, outreach events, and public programming, DLAM introduced students and families to library services, digital resources, archives, research collections, and workforce development 15 tools. The Division also continued promoting access to Hoopla and other digital resources, expanding opportunities for residents to access educational and entertainment content regardless of location. DLAM's success was strengthened through partnerships with numerous public, private, and nonprofit organizations, including Government House, the Virgin Islands National Guard, 20 VITEMA, VIFEMS, the Department of Labor, WTJX, local schools, cultural organizations, community groups, and several DPNR divisions. These collaborations enhanced the Division's ability to deliver meaningful programming while connecting residents with educational, cultural, environmental, and public safety resources. In partnership with DPNR's Division of Fish and Wildlife, DLAM also began development of a dedicated Fish and Wildlife reference collection 25 and educational programming designed to increase public awareness of the Territory's natural resources. Archives The Division continued to preserve and expand access to the Virgin Islands' documentary heritage through its archives program. In partnership with archivists from Denmark, DLAM 30 continued the digitization, transcription, and translation of historic records, including police and voting records dating to the Danish colonial period. These efforts will significantly increase public access to historical documents while preserving irreplaceable records for future generations. Museums DLAM's museums and cultural facilities continued to serve as important centers for education, 35 cultural preservation, and community engagement. Throughout the year, the Division curated exhibitions, hosted educational programs, facilitated cultural demonstrations, and welcomed thousands of visitors to its historic sites and museums. Major exhibitions highlighted Virgin Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 34 Islands history, culture, artistic expression, and community voices while providing educational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The Division also advanced plans for the development of new permanent exhibits at the Territory's fort museums through a $500,000 U.S. Economic Development Administration (USEDA) subgrant. In collaboration with the State Historic Preservation Office and Howard + 5 Revis Design Services, DLAM is currently completing the conceptual design phase for exhibits that will interpret the Virgin Islands' natural, cultural, and socioeconomic heritage. Public engagement was a key component of this effort, with virtual town halls conducted in both districts to gather community input. Upon identification of future implementation funding, fabrication and installation of these exhibits will further strengthen the Territory's cultural 10 tourism offerings and enhance public understanding of Virgin Islands history and heritage. 15 PERMITS The Division of Building Permits main function is reviewing applications, issuing permits, and conducting inspections. 20 The following permits were issued from October 2025 to May 2026: • 863 Renewable Energy Permits • 805 Building Permits 25 • 629 Electrical Permits • 560 Certificate of Occupancy /Use • 321 Plumbing Permits • 138 Demolition Permits Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 35 • 75 Flood Zone Permits • 51 Stop Work Orders • 21 Mechanical Permits • 7 Wireless Facility Permits 5 The Division conducted over 2949 Inspections and continues to ensure construction complies with all applicable codes of the USVI. Throughout this FY2026 year, Division of Permit has expanded its public outreach by hosting educational sessions on permit requirements and the e-permitting system. In parallel, we have implemented more enforcement on noncompliance construction which has increased our number of Stop Work Orders issued. 10 15 20 25 30 The Division of Permits educated stakeholders on how our E-Permitting system and it’s GIS advantages could be used through our E- Permitting system. 35 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 36 The Division of Permits staff at the VI Annual Agricultural Fair, speaking on serves the Division 5 provides and answers questions the community has for Floodplain area and code/permitting requirements. Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 37 The Division of Permits staff working alongside our stakeholders on NFIP Mapping of the Territory. Also, Division of Permits continues to implement code inspection/enforcement for 5 our community. STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE 10 The Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation Office provided mandatory Section 106 Consultation Reviews for federally supported projects in the Territory and provided historic preservation technical assistance to private sector property owners and Virgin Islands governmental agencies. In all, 260 Section 106 reviews have been conducted through June 2026. 15 Highlight of a VISHPO St. Croix Historic Recovery Project Completed 20 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 38 Highlight of a VISHPO St. Thomas Historic Recovery Project Completed 5 Virgin Islands Historic Preservation Commission 2025/2026 Activity Summary In 2026, the Virgin Islands Historic Preservation Commission (VIHPC), operating under the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR), continued to advance its mission of safeguarding the Territory’s cultural and historic resources through regulatory oversight, 10 strategic planning, and community engagement initiatives. Comprised of the St. Thomas–St. John Historic Preservation Committee and the St. Croix Historic Preservation Committee, the Commission reviewed a combined total of 150 applications in 2026 for preservation, rehabilitation, and development activities within the historic districts of Charlotte Amalie, Cruz Bay, Christiansted, and Frederiksted, ensuring that proposed work remained consistent with 15 preservation standards and statutory requirements. In May 2026, the Commission convened its Annual Meeting in St. Thomas, bringing together leadership, staff, and committee members to review ongoing initiatives and set priorities for the coming year. Key agenda items included updates on the Historic Recovery Program, discussions on budget allocations, and the advancement of special projects and interagency 20 collaborations. The meeting also addressed critical operational topics such as staffing, enforcement strategies, and improvements to permitting and application review protocols to enhance efficiency and transparency. Additional discussions focused on expanding funding opportunities through partnerships with the Department of Tourism and the potential Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 39 engagement of the Virgin Islands Lottery as a new revenue source to support preservation initiatives. A significant highlight of the year was the official launch of the Virgin Islands Historic Districts Guide, a new resource designed to increase public awareness and appreciation of the Territory’s historic districts while providing clear guidance on preservation standards, 5 processes, and best practices. The Guide serves as both an educational and regulatory tool, supporting property owners, developers, and the broader community in navigating preservation requirements and contributing to the long-term stewardship of the Virgin Islands’ historic assets. 10 Collectively, these efforts reflect the Commission’s continued commitment to strengthening preservation practices, enhancing public engagement, and positioning the Virgin Islands’ historic districts as vital cultural, economic, and educational resources. TERRITORIAL PARKS & PROTECTED AREAS 15 During the 2026 fiscal year, the Division of Territorial Parks & Protected Areas (TPPA) celebrated many accomplishments. In June, TPPA hired and onboarded a Special Projects Coordinator, a recruit from the UVI Masters of Marine and Environmental Sciences, to manage the Steering Away from ADVs project funded by Boat USA and took on a Navigating Home Fellow through 20 UVI who will work with TPPA for two months designing and launching outreach projects aimed to engage the community with parks and natural spaces. This year has also brought many opportunities for staff to travel to conferences and share accomplishments and projects. Director Edwards and NOAA Fellow Douyon presented at PRiMO in Oahu to island nation representatives on our land acquisition accomplishments, and staff also were able to travel to 25 multiple conferences to participate in workshops and learning exchanges with other park professionals. Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 40 This fiscal year TPPA continued its mission of adding nine new properties to the Territorial Parks System through land acquisition projects under the NOAA Climate Regional Resilience Challenge (CRRC) grant. The team completed the purchase of two new properties for inclusion in the Territorial Parks System, 53 acres above Great Pond in Estate Lowry on St. Croix, and 139 5 acres in Estate Perseverance on St. Thomas. This brings the division to three major land acquisitions under this grant protecting land in perpetuity. With funding from this award, the division has continued to work with numerous local non-profits and programs at UVI to increase environmental education and workforce development in the territory. All updates on this grant can be seen at https://dpnr.vi.gov/parks/crrc. 10 The first new trail has been created in the Maroon Sanctuary Territorial Park, which connects an existing trail to the highest point on Mt Eagle to Scenic Road and is now open to the public. This 15 trail was funding through a partnership with local nonprofit VI Trail Alliance (VITAL) using grant funds provided by the US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. It was designed and buld by Rock Solid Trails, a company who designs and creates trails for state parks throughout the country. The partnership with VITAL and Rock Solid Trails will continue for at least three more building seasons as the team anticipates building an additional 25 miles of new trails, 20 designed with the input of the local community and experts. We look forward to building more partnerships like this one to take advantage of the amazing resources already active in the Virgin Islands as we build a Territorial Parks System for the people of the VI. 25 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 41 The Property and Operations Program of TPPA expanded its partnership with Crucian Heritage and Nature Tourism (CHANT) to rpvide onsite job training to participants and have undertaken projects to remove illegal structures and accumulated waste from two designated park sites: Columbus Landing at Salt River and Hesselberg, on St. Croix. Partners learned about 5 maintaining park spaces for aesthetics and safety, and spent a day learning about media production and documentation in Altona Lagoon. This initiative, conducted under Pillar III of the NOAA CRRC grant, reflects a coordinated and strategic approach to environmental conservation and community engagement. 10 The Communications Program in TPPA continues to work with the community at home and abroad through outreach and education programs such as the Virgin Islands Network of Environmental Educations (VINE). This monthly meeting brings formal and informal educators together to collaborate and align outreach activities throughout the Territory, creating a pipeline 15 of formal and informal education opportunities for local youth. Through this network, organizations and government agencies expand their reach, share grant opportunities and increase effectiveness. 20 The TPPA Communications Specialist also manages the Science Saturday program, which has been running monthly at DPNR since March 2017. Streamed on DPNR’s Facebook Page on the second Saturday of every month at 10:00 am, Science Saturday engages local researchers and shares their knowledge with the community in an easily digestible format through fun and engaging activities and interviews. These are loaded onto the Department’s YouTube page as 25 well, where every episode since 2020 can be viewed. Over the last year, our Communiciations Specialist has worked with our NOAA Fellow to expand TPPA’s blog series on the Parks website, where you can learn more about what the TPPA team is up to or read synopsis of Science Saturdays and access the links to each video. Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 42 VIRGIN ISLANDS COUNCIL ON THE ARTS 5 In 2026, the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts (VICA) continued its mission to enrich the cultural life of the Virgin Islands through leadership that preserves, strengthens, and makes accessible excellence in the arts to all Virgin Islanders. 10 VICA awarded $375,315 to 69 grantees across the Territory, supporting a diverse array of programs, including arts education, music festivals, traditional craft workshops, documentaries, cultural projects, school-based initiatives, and cultural heritage tours. Additionally, VICA offered mini-grants of up to $2,500, enabling initiatives such as the production of CDs and videos, instruction in traditional arts and crafts, book publications, 15 festivals, and programs serving at-risk and disabled children. VICA's Arts and Education Program continued to expand opportunities for learning and artistic engagement throughout the Territory. Through school visits, workshops, artist demonstrations, and community outreach activities, students and residents were exposed to a wide range of artistic disciplines and cultural traditions. These efforts fostered creativity, encouraged cultural 20 awareness, and provided meaningful opportunities for youth engagement in the arts. Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 43 The Council’s offices across the Territory served as galleries and performance spaces, hosting numerous exhibitions that showcased the talents of Virgin Islands artists and celebrated the Territory’s diverse cultural heritage. These spaces also featured African drumming, classical and jazz recitals, woodworking demonstrations, artist talks, and various community-based 5 events. In collaboration with local organizations, VICA continued the successful Made in the USVI Pop-Up Shops, providing local artists and artisans with opportunities for business growth, networking, and increased exposure. VICA led the Territorial Poetry Out Loud competition, which saw ten schools participate. Joelitica Rogers, a junior at Charlotte Amalie High School, emerged as the territorial champion 10 and represented the U.S. Virgin Islands at the national finals in Washington, D.C., where she advanced to the semifinals. VICA provided travel and accommodation for the winners and their chaperones, as well as awards for the top three finalists. The Council also promoted the Poetry Ourselves Competition, encouraging students to create original poetry and fostering creative expression among Virgin Islands youth. 15 In partnership with Stanley and The Ten Sleepless Knights, VICA organized Folklife Festivals on St. Croix and St. Thomas, celebrating the Virgin Islands’ rich cultural heritage through workshops, storytelling, traditional dance, music, basket weaving, head-tying demonstrations, and other cultural activities. 20 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 44 Additionally, VICA coordinated the Congressional Art Competition in partnership with the Office of Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett, inviting high school students from across the Territory to compete for the opportunity to have their artwork displayed in the United States Capitol. Winners and their chaperones were sponsored by VICA to attend the national exhibition in Washington, D.C. 5 Through these initiatives, VICA demonstrated its steadfast commitment to enriching the cultural life of the Virgin Islands, ensuring continued growth, accessibility, preservation, and celebration of the arts for all residents. 10 15 20 25 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 45 APPENDIX II: FY 2026 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 46 5 10 Planning & Natural Resources Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Presentation 47 5 10 15 20 25