Housing & Livable Communities

Problem

Outdated regulations, high construction costs, and limited lending options make it difficult for Virgin Islanders to build or buy homes. Construction costs per square foot far exceed mainland averages, while complex eligibility rules, long permitting timelines, and administrative delays leave many residents qualified on paper but unable to access housing in practice.

Solution

• Issue an executive order to hire additional magistrate judges to handle the backlog of probate cases
• Remove overly restrictive policies that limit eligibility for residents applying for housing through the VIHFA
• Simplifying permitting and inspection timelines
• Seek enhanced lending opportunities from local banks
• Align policies with the realities of today’s housing market

Impact

More Virgin Islanders can purchase homes, build generational wealth, and remain in their communities.

Problem

Rental prices continue to rise while supply remains limited, leaving many families one rent increase away from displacement and reducing options for young professionals and working households.

Solution

Expand mixed-use and mixed-income developments

• Rezone key corridors to allow higher-density housing
• Incentivize modern apartment construction
• Incentivize developments that combine residential, retail, and commercial spaces.

Impact

Increased housing supply that helps stabilize rent prices, provides more affordable options for residents, and creates vibrant, walkable communities that support both living and economic activity.

Problem

Many seniors on fixed incomes struggle to keep up with rising cost of living, often choosing between purchasing medications and paying their property tax bills, making it harder to remain in the homes and communities they built over a lifetime.

Solution

Establish a tiered, age- and income-based property tax relief program for senior homeowners, with full exemptions available to qualifying seniors who reside in their homes as their primary residence.

Impact

Greater financial relief for seniors, stronger housing stability, reduced financial strain on families, and the ability for more elders to remain in their homes and communities.