Since its creation, the Authority has achieved a number of goals that were set, and we are very proud of those accomplishments. The VIWMA is quickly advancing towards self-sufficiency and is moving forward with the performance necessary to meet both the Authority’s Vision and Mission statements.

Since 2005, the Authority has successfully completed the construction of both the Anguilla Treatment Plant on St. Croix and the Red Point Facility on St. Thomas. By the end of this year, we anticipate that the holding pond at the St. Thomas site will be eliminated, thereby eradicating the unpleasant odors emanating from that location. By next fall, the fire at the Anguilla landfill should be completely contained and extinguished. At that point, we will be able to close that particular facility.

I am happy to report that St. John has been able to meet their goals towards making sure that both their solid waste and wastewater systems are in good order.

We foresee that user fees will be in effect in 2008, which will lead to more autonomy for the VIWMA from the Government. This fee structure will provide sustenance to the Authority, and once the fee goes into effect, we trust people will be more responsible and sensitive to wastewater treatment and how to properly dispose of their solid waste to help eliminate the overflow currently being experienced at our landfills.

While we have done a tremendous job in rectifying the “physical” problems related to the proper disposal of wastewater and solid waste (and those programs will continue), in the coming months, we will be turning our attention towards more public education about our programs and how the populace can greatly assist the Authority – and the Territory – in reducing the cost of waste disposal and making the islands cleaner and healthier for all of us.

I urge everyone to be the “eyes and ears” of the VIWMA and to become involved in the various VIWMA programs to ensure we are truly able to “Preserve Paradise” for generations to come.

Through the guidance of the Board of Directors, the Authority will continue to establish and maintain strong fiscal and management controls while acting in the best interest of the Territory’s residents and businesses.