TUESDAY, 
MARCH 04, 2025 
10:00 A.M. 
Frits E. Lawaetz 
Legislative  
Conference Room 
St. Croix, Virgin Islands 
 
 
 
 
THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE - RECONVENED 
The Committee of the Whole will continue to receive testimony on the economic pressures 
impacting the cost of living in the U.S. Virgin Islands 
 
Part 3: 
 
HIGH FUEL PRICES 
• 
Breakdown of gas pricing (Wholesale vs Retail) 
• 
Impact of global market trends on local gas prices 
• 
Role of transportation and freight costs on price inflation 
• 
Government oversight and regulation of gas pricing 
• 
Potential for renewable energy and alternative fuel solutions 
 
Invited Testifiers: 
Kyle Fleming, Director, VI Energy Office 
Lawrence Ramdhansingh, President, VI Taxi Association 
Kerry Harrigan, Manager, Best Taxi 
Allison Petrus, Owner, Petrus Gas 
Honorable Nathalie Hodge, Commissioner, VI Department of Licensing & Consumer Affairs 
Honorable Wayne Biggs, Chief Executive Officer, VI Economic Development Authority 
 
Part 4: 
 
SALES TAX vs GROSS RECEIPT TAXES 
• 
Comparative Analysis of sales tax and gross receipt taxes 
• 
Economic Impact on businesses and consumers 
• 
Revenue implications for the government 
• 
Insights from academic and economic experts 
• 
Recommendations for tax reform or adjustments 
 
Invited Testifiers: 
Dr. Mark Wenner, Economist 
Honorable Joel Lee, Director, VI Bureau of Internal Revenue 
Julio Rhymer, Director, Office of Management and Budget 
Honorable Kevin McCurdy, Commissioner, VI Department of Finance