Historic Preservation Signage Rules Stir Controversy Among St. Croix Business Owners

Frustration over Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) signage regulations took center stage at a meeting of the St. Croix HPC last Thursday.

Several businesses appeared before the HPC board for signage violations, including those located in the Pan Am complex in Christiansted. Marley Natural was cited for non-compliance due to numerous decals on display windows and front doors. Despite pushback, committee members emphasized the importance of ensuring all businesses in historic districts comply with regulations concerning signage and physical premises.

“There is a level of compliance that needs to be administered throughout the district,” said Kurt Marsh, chair of the VI Historic Preservation Commission.

Mr. Marsh dismissed Marley Natural’s argument that neighboring businesses displayed worse forms of non-compliance. “We can’t function properly if we focus on neighbors rather than the overall regulation of the district,” he said. He urged business owners to comply with regulations to set a good example for others.

Mr. Marsh also sought assistance from St. Croix Administrator Sammuel Sanes, who was present at the meeting. He suggested that collaboration with the Administrator’s Office to encourage landlords to ensure tenant compliance would enhance the efficiency of the compliance process.

Nate’s Boathouse, represented by Chief Operating Officer Chris Mitchell, also faced signage non-compliance issues. Mr. Mitchell challenged the HPC’s authority to regulate signage in his location, citing the three differently-designated districts within Christiansted. Despite State Historic Preservation Officer Sean Krigger explaining the HPC’s legal empowerment, Mr. Mitchell insisted on a legal opinion from the 35th Legislature. He voiced concerns about the fairness of the regulations, highlighting non-compliance by a nearby library and other businesses.

Mr. Marsh remained firm on the HPC’s approach to slowly bring businesses into compliance, reminding Mr. Mitchell of the committee’s limited resources. “We are a volunteer board with no staff to handle discrepancies,” he said, noting the board’s monthly meetings to regulate the Virgin Islands Historic Preservation Commission’s rules.

Mr. Marsh acknowledged that some of the worst violators of historical district regulations are government entities. He stressed the need for a collaborative rather than adversarial approach, recognizing the widespread violations across various districts.

Despite resource challenges, the HPC aims to tailor regulations to current realities. Mr. Marsh cited a recent decision to allow phone numbers on signage as an example of adapting to modern communication needs. He urged business owners to cooperate, emphasizing the importance of preserving the architectural legacy and appeal of historic buildings.

St. Croix Administrator Samuel Sanes supported the HPC’s mission and expressed frustration at the Legislature’s failure to pass legislation that would strengthen the committee’s authority. Mr. Sanes, a former senator, criticized some property owners’ careless treatment of historic buildings but advocated for compassion towards struggling business owners.

Mr. Sanes echoed concerns about the tough conditions for businesses in Christiansted. He supported efforts to review and adjust the fee structure for historic district regulation violations but stressed the need for increased capacity and staff to handle compliance efficiently.

Senate President Novelle Francis, represented by Shawna Richards, shared concerns about removing advertising amid economic challenges. She acknowledged the statutory basis of HPC regulations and expressed willingness to support legislative review to update relevant sections of the VI Code. Ms. Richards emphasized the need for additional funding to increase the HPC’s enforcement capacity.

While rebutting claims that current regulations deter businesses, Mr. Marsh welcomed discussions on amending size regulations to better accommodate business needs. “We can talk about these things and make amendments together to ensure efficiency and satisfaction,” he said.