MINISTRY OF VROMI CLARIFIES POSITION ON CHRISTMAS LIGHTING INITIATIVE

No fees were requested

The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) wishes to address inaccurate reports published in local media regarding the Christmas lighting​ initiative led by Project Us SXM Foundation.

The Ministry of VROMI categorically denies requesting any fees from Project Us SXM Foundation for their Christmas lighting initiative. Recent media reports claiming that VROMI requested approximately $10,000 USD or any other amount for the use of light poles are false and misrepresent the Ministry's interaction with the foundation.

The facts are as follows:

· On September 18th, Project Us SXM Foundation submitted a request to the Ministry last month seeking approval to install Christmas lights

· On October 9th the Ministry reviewed and approved their request

· The Ministry of VROMI is legally responsible for the light poles, the maintenance and operation of which is mandated to GEBE.

· No fees were requested or required as part of this approval process

· The Ministry did not attach any financial conditions to the project

"We are surprised and somewhat disappointed by the spread of misinformation regarding our support for this community initiative," said Minister of VROMI, Patrice Gumbs. "The Ministry received their request, processed it immediately, and granted approval without requesting any payment.” The Ministry urges Project Us SXM Foundation to make contact to clarify the source of this information and to move forward with the realization of their very meaningful initiative, as we draw nearer to the Christmas season.

The Ministry of VROMI remains committed to facilitating community-driven initiatives that enhance the quality of life for all residents of Sint Maarten. The Minister and the Ministry maintain an open-door policy, that despite at times being delayed in response, is not a sign of unwillingness to provide services or collaborate, but a reflection of the volume of requests and issues being handled by the respective teams, in pursuit of our aim to better serve our community.

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