Mapp Proposes Expansion To Agriculture Revolving Fund, Increase In Hotel Tax

ST. THOMAS — Governor Kenneth Mapp on Friday submitted legislation to the Senate that seeks to expand the Agriculture Revolving Fund and increase the Hotel Room Occupancy and the Time-Share Estate (occupancy) taxes from 10 percent to 12 percent beginning January 2016.

“By expanding the use of the Agriculture Revolving Fund and providing at least $1 million each year from the increased rate of the hotel occupancy and the time-share estate tax is how my administration is seeking your support to jump start the agriculture industry in the US Virgin Islands,” Mapp said.

“This funding will support a soon-to-be created farmers’ cooperative to grow and provide fresh fruits, vegetables, seasonings and herbs for our school lunch program. It will provide our farmers with real support through the Department of Agriculture. These funds will be used to acquire equipment, provide land preparation, irrigation, green or organic control of pestilence, seedlings, crop management and the handling and storage of produce. Given our drought conditions, now more than ever, is the right time to make our commitment to agriculture real,” he added.

The governor said as the number of farms in the territory increases, the local industry would then be able to sustain a dependable and affordable supply of produce to hospitals, head start programs, senior residential facilities, restaurants and ultimately the general public. The funds requested under this bill, the governor said, will only be used for the growth and harvesting of food through modernization of the farm support systems.

“Our first goal is to create a farm-to-school lunch program; then provide farm-to-table meals in our hospitals, head start centers and in our senior citizens residential communities,” the chief executive added. ”

“It is time to grow food in the US Virgin Islands, so I respectfully ask the Legislature to join me by taking up the mantel and providing immediate action on this bill by giving it your favorable consideration,” he concluded.

Feature Image: Dale Browne, co-founder of Sejah Farm, holds a yellow zucchini grown at his farm.