Letters To The Editor: 4 Questions For HOVENSA On High Gas Prices

Dear Editor,

I’ve been following the latest discussion on the high price of fuel in the Virgin Islands compared to the price of fuel in the 50 states. In Hovensa’s previous response to the letter from Commissioner Biggs of DLCA that I read on the VI Consortium website dated November 21st, Hovensa stated that up until October 24th it was selling gas to local gas station owners using fuel purchased in June 2014 when the cost of fuel was higher.

Then, on November 24th, Hovensa announced its expected gas depletion dates in a letter issued to its customers. The disturbing depletion dates raised a few questions that I’m hoping Hovensa could answer:

1. When was the last two shipments of fuel received at your dock on St. Croix?

2. How much fuel did you receive?

3. If at the end of October we were using fuel purchased in June, what month was the currently used fuel purchased?

4. If Hovensa’s plans to shutdown all operations mid-December is not to force the Senate to rush a decision in ABR VI’s favor, then what is your intent behind shutting down the refinery on such short notice?

I’m hoping Hovensa could publicly answer these four questions.

Now, to the members of the 30th Legislature, please stay strong for us the people you represent and swore to serve. This looks like another attempt to force you, the Senate body, into passing a deal that you have not had enough time to thoroughly pick apart and analyze. I have faith that you will make the best decision for all of us.

My name is Ignacio Llanos III and I am fed up!

The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the staff and management of the VI Consortium.