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Committee approves lease for Tropical Marine Inc.; forward to full Senate
Summary
The Committee on Rules and Judiciary voted to approve and forward to the full Senate a lease agreement between the government and Tropical Marine Inc. to enable upgrades and expansion of a long‑running St. Thomas marina business.
The Committee on Rules and Judiciary voted March 27 to favorably report Bill No. 36-0028, approving a lease agreement between the government of the U.S. Virgin Islands and Tropical Marine Inc., the owner-operator of a local marina in Red Hook, St. Thomas.
Senate President Milton E. Potter introduced the measure on behalf of the governor, saying the business is “a locally owned marina [that] has served our community for the past 45 years” and that the proposed lease would enable upgrades and expansion to “create new jobs” and support the marine industry.
Committee members noted the bill was vetted in the Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance and heard testimony in prior meetings. Debate in Rules and Judiciary was limited and supportive; senators said the lease aligns with goals to diversify commerce, support blue‑economy businesses and preserve generational local enterprises.
Motion and committee action: Senator Angel L. Bocas Jr. moved the committee to vote favorably and forward the measure; the motion passed by roll call. The clerk recorded seven yeas on the committee vote. The measure will be transmitted to the full Senate for final action.
Ending: Committee members commended the business for its longevity and noted the lease is intended to support local job creation and maritime commerce.
