USVI government

Dear Megan,

Have you read posts on this forum about apartments, jobs and government? Have you made a PMV or are you planning on moving here rather blindly? Have you looked into the VI Source on-line newspaper or the on-line Virgin Islands Daily News? Just asking!

Come on Anna, no need to be so gruff with a newbie. Give them a chance. Just tell them the answers lie within, Do a search, they are also available on the top of the page. Just click on the links.

RL

The government, culture and way of life is different from the U.S. mainland in many ways. In general, the local government suffers from a higher degree of frustration and inefficiency than most state governments. So, I would advise you to come here with an open mind. This is an American territory, but not America. Look at the situation as coming to a different country that is under US jurisdiction and follows US laws. In addition to the US federal laws, we have our own laws as well.

Dear Ronnie, ye of lightness of heart and good humour, my apologies to Megan for appearing snarky are hereby proffered. I most certainly could and should have said it less tersely and you were quite right to rap my gnarly old knuckles! XXX

Hello Megan,

Finding an apartment that allows pets is tough, not impossible but having a dog makes things more difficult. Also you said dogs... how many dogs do you have?

Construction jobs and many other jobs require networking. They are here to be had.

We have federal laws and institutions (income tax, social security, social programs, immigration offices/laws, justice dept., postal services) and we have some that are unique to us (drinking age is 18, we can't vote for president, no state taxes because we aren't a state, no sales tax, we drive on the left). Just listing topics that came to mind. This site should give you some more insight into VI government http://www.senate.gov.vi/Legvi2/history.htm.

--Islander

Sorry but I have to post again re DL's comment that, "In general, the local government suffers from a higher degree of frustration and inefficiency than most state governments." I beg to partially disagree. The majority of local government actually suffers a very low degree of frustration.

I'm the first in line to applaud government officials and employees who treat one courteously - it's truly a breath of fresh air to go to a government office whether it be the MVD or the VIPD or anywhere inbetween and NOT be treated with basic contempt and very quiet teeth-sucking because you just happened to disturb an employee in the middle of eating his or her lunch or otherwise occupied with a personal 'phone call. "Service" in the minds of many local Virgin Islanders is equated with being "servile" and I find that very sad.

Most service businesses, whether they be a bank, a government agency, a plumbing or electrical business, a restaurant, any kind of a store, etc. provide SERVICE to customers but so many fail both here and nation-wide because they simply don't offer the customer prompt and polite service.

As far as the government in general is concerned, I'll say the same thing over and over again as long as I'm blessed with breath. If you live here and you're an American citizen with a right to vote here, get involved and speak your speak, then register to vote, get to know the candidates and make your decision to go along with the person who makes the most sense to you. Informed people can really make a difference.

Enough for now - cheers!

STT Resident - I believe we're both saying pretty much the same thing. Like you said, the whole lack of service that you pointed out is evidence of a HIGHER (i.e. more) degree of frustration that runs rampant throughout the VI government.

Thanks to everyone who shared information with me. We have friends that are in St. Thomas and we'll be staying with them until we find an apartment with our dog (1 dog). I've looked at all the websites & newsletters, but it seems to me that it will be easier to find apts and jobs once we get there. My friend (the resident) agrees, so we'll just have to see! Thanks again everyone!

Megan,
You are wise beyond your years. You figured it out very quickly. Some folks never figure it out. Find a place to stay for a week or two and look for a permenant spot once you get her.