Lawmakers Suggest Takeover of V.I. Taxicab Commission by DLCA After Budget Hearing

Lawmakers express frustration over repeated delays and inadequate financial records from the V.I. Taxicab Commission

Lawmakers have suggested once again that the V.I. Taxicab Commission should be placed under the purview of the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs, following the Commission’s appearance before Friday's meeting of the Committee on Budget, Appropriations, and Finance.

“They have the systems in place. They have the admin staff. They have all the additional staff who only need to get additional enforcement to get this work done,” said Senator Donna-Frett to Vernice Gumbs, executive director of the TCC.

“We have to do what's best for the people of the Virgin Islands at this point…I am prepared to do what I have to do to address this situation,” the lawmaker promised.

In its FY2025 budget request, the Commission is seeking $1,555,706.93. According to Ms. Gumbs, the figure “has taken into consideration additional responsibilities that are desperately needed.” Describing it as a “rock bottom” projection, she told lawmakers that anything less would “increase our challenges.” Of the figure, personnel accounts for $445,968 while fringe benefits will cost the Commission $226,018. Ms. Gumbs has also budgeted $5,200 for supplies, and $350,235.58 for vacancies including three taxi inspectors, a chief enforcement officer, an assistant executive director, a human resources coordinator, and an administrative secretary.