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Respect, Not Money: Landowner Stands Firm Amid Hodges Creek Road Dispute

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– Roadworks Resumes After Landowner, Government Reach Agreement

The roadworks project in Hodges Creek has hit a roadblock—not because of financial demands, but because of a lack of respect, according to landowner Clyde Chalwell.

Chalwell, the owner of the land where the government is carrying out major roadworks, says he was never consulted before the project began, and that is the real issue at hand.

“No one has come to me, my family members, or anyone to have a conversation about the infringement on our property,” Chalwell said. “We’ve been waiting and waiting for someone to come talk to us, and up to now, that has not happened.”

According to Chalwell, his recent move to erect boundary poles was not meant to halt the project, but simply to mark what is rightfully his.

“I haven’t stopped the road, I haven’t stopped the work. All I am doing is marking my boundaries, like any other property owner would do,” he explained. “You can’t just jump on someone’s property and do as you like without consultation.”

The disputed section of land has been in use as part of the roadway for years, but with the new rehabilitation project, Chalwell believes the government should have done the right thing and engaged him in discussion first.

“If this is a new construction, and they have a plan, then let’s have a conversation about it,” he said. “Why do I have to reach out to them? If I needed access to government land, I would have to go to them. They are the ones accessing my land, not the other way around.”

Public opinion has swirled with speculation that Chalwell is seeking money from the government in exchange for the land. He firmly rejects this claim.

“Money never crossed my mind, and it’s still not on my mind. The land is not for sale,” he stated. “It’s about doing the correct thing. This isn’t North Korea. We don’t live in a dictatorship. I have rights, just like everyone else.”

Chalwell emphasised that a simple discussion could resolve the matter immediately.

“All I want is a conversation. Let me know what you’re doing. Get my blessing to continue,” he said. “I’m not against any project. The government just has to be responsible and act as a government.”

A meeting between Chalwell and Minister for Communications and Works, Hon. Kye Rymer, took place today. Following the discussion, Chalwell agreed to remove the boundary poles, allowing the project to proceed.

“I never wanted to stop anything; I just wanted them to do the right thing and speak to me first,” Chalwell said after the meeting. “Now that we’ve had that conversation, we can move forward.”

Chalwell also criticised what he sees as a pattern of government actions that disregard the rights of local landowners.

“If I needed to use a government facility, I would have to ask. But when it comes to a BVIslander’s land, they do what they want,” he said. “You can’t put a telephone pole in front of someone’s house without permission, but they think they can just take our land without asking? That won’t happen.”

Following this interview with Jahphixtelevision (JTV) , Chalwell met with Premier Hon. Natalio Wheatley and Minister of Communications and Works, Hon. Kye Rymer. After the meeting, he informed JTV that he agreed to remove the boundary poles, allowing the project to move forward.

As the roadworks resume, Chalwell insists that his stance was never about obstructing development but ensuring that due process and respect are upheld.

“The government must be held accountable,” he said. “You don’t just take people’s property without asking. That’s not how it works.”

Crime/Police

Prison Superintendent Addresses Attack on Officer at Balsam Ghut

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 A correctional officer was attacked by an inmate with known mental health challenges at His Majesty’s Prison on Sunday, March 30.

Superintendent of Prison Jay Kendall in a statement confirmed that immediate action taken by officers involved to ensure everyone’s safety.

“Our team responded rapidly and with professionalism,” Kendall said. “The situation was de-escalated with appropriate force to ensure the safety of all individuals involved, and the incident was brought under control within minutes.”

Kendall assured the public that both the officer and the inmate received medical attention at Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital and were treated and released the same day.

“I am relieved that both the officer and the inmate are now in stable condition. We are grateful for the medical team’s prompt and compassionate care,” Kendall noted. “Their quick intervention was critical in managing what could have been a much more serious situation.”

The superintendent also praised his staff for their vigilance and quick thinking in responding to the crisis.

“This incident underscores the unpredictable nature of corrections work, where staff must often balance security with managing complex mental health needs,” he stated. “I want to commend my officers for their professionalism. Their actions prevented further harm, ensuring that the situation was contained swiftly.”

Kendall reiterated that the prison continues to face challenges in managing inmates with mental health issues, a concern that has prompted ongoing efforts to strengthen safety and rehabilitation programs.

“For the past 18 months, we’ve worked closely with the Ministry of Health and Social Development and the Governor’s Office to enhance safety protocols, improve officer training, and introduce mental health awareness initiatives,” he explained. “We’ve also upgraded protective equipment and communication tools to ensure our officers can respond effectively in critical situations.”

While Kendall acknowledged progress, he stressed that continuous improvement is essential.

“We are committed to enhancing our procedures and resources to uphold the highest standards of care, security, and rehabilitation,” he said. “Mental health remains a priority, and we will continue to work with our partners to develop better interventions that support both institutional security and inmate well-being.”

In closing, Kendall expressed his appreciation for the collective efforts of those involved in managing the situation.

“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who played a role in responding to this incident,” he said. “We remain committed to the safety, security, and well-being of both our staff and the individuals in our care.”

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Local News

BVI Electricity Corporation Unveils Transparent Billing System, Detailing Fuel Costs

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The British Virgin Islands Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) has introduced a revised electricity bill format that provides customers with a clearer breakdown of fuel-related charges, in a move toward greater financial transparency,  The new bill, set to be distributed starting this month, was unveiled at a press conference held at BVIEC’s Long Bush headquarters on Thursday.

The redesigned bill includes additional details aimed at helping customers better understand how fuel costs contribute to their electricity charges. It now displays the cost of fuel per gallon as a surcharge, reflecting the base cost that influences energy pricing. It also shows the BVIEC fuel subsidy per gallon, which represents the amount the corporation offsets to reduce the financial burden on consumers. The customer fuel surcharge per gallon, or net surcharge, reveals the final fuel-related charge customers pay after subsidies are applied.

“This initiative underscores our commitment to transparency and accountability,” said Dr. Neil Smith, BVIEC’s General Manager. “Customers deserve to know not only what they’re being charged but also how BVIEC is working to support them, particularly in an era of fluctuating energy prices.”

Chief Financial Officer Carmen Sully echoed this sentiment, emphasizing BVIEC’s longstanding efforts to cushion customers from rising fuel costs. She explained that each month, BVIEC makes a substantial financial contribution to help mitigate high energy prices. By including this information in the bill, the corporation is not just offering transparency but also highlighting the value it provides to every household and business in the territory.

Beyond improved visibility into costs, the updated billing system reflects a broader modernization effort in how customer charges are processed and presented.

The new bill format will be implemented for all BVIEC customers beginning in April 2025.

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Education

VI Celebrates Inclusion at Down Syndrome Awareness Event

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The Virgin Islands reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity and support for individuals with Down syndrome as the Social Development Department, through the Disability Services Division, hosted a Down Syndrome Awareness Motorcade, Sports, and Games Day last week.

Held at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park, the event, themed “Improve Our Support Systems,” brought together families, caregivers, advocates, and community members in a day of celebration and awareness. Participants engaged in interactive games, sporting activities, and discussions aimed at highlighting the importance of strong support networks for individuals with Down syndrome.

The motorcade, a key feature of the event, traveled through Road Town, drawing attention to the cause and encouraging greater societal engagement in disability advocacy. Attendees, including government officials and representatives from various community organizations, echoed the call for continued improvements in support services, accessibility, and awareness initiatives.

Parents and caregivers also took the opportunity to share personal experiences, highlighting both progress and ongoing challenges in securing resources and services for individuals with Down syndrome in the territory.

The Social Development Department expressed gratitude for the community’s participation and reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening support systems for individuals with disabilities through continued advocacy and policy development.

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