The Department of Agriculture has temporarily closed the St. Croix abattoir following a routine inspection that uncovered a significant safety concern requiring immediate attention. This announcement was made on Monday, with the department noting that while minor issues typically arise during such inspections, the current problem presents a severe risk to employee safety. The specific nature of the hazard has not been disclosed.

The department is currently in talks with prospective contractors to estimate the duration and cost of the necessary repairs. Additionally, a comprehensive follow-up inspection is scheduled to take place at the abattoir to ascertain any further risks, aiming to safeguard employee welfare and customer satisfaction.

Efforts to reach the abattoir’s director for more details on the identified issue and its history have been unsuccessful so far.

The Department of Human Services (DHS) in the Virgin Islands is issuing a crucial reminder to all recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/CASH) about the fast-approaching deadline to submit necessary documentation for May benefits. The DHS’s Division of Family Assistance, Certification Unit, is urging timely submission of Recertification Applications, Periodic Reports, and any additional required documents to avoid any disruptions in benefit distribution.

As the deadline nears, the importance of adhering to the due dates provided in the received documents cannot be overstressed, as it ensures the continuation of benefits without interruption. Those who miss these deadlines risk having their benefits suspended or, in extreme cases, their cases closed, necessitating a complete reapplication process.

The DHS advises first-time applicants to ensure their application packets are thoroughly completed and include all necessary document copies to prevent any processing delays.

Documents can be submitted through several methods provided by VIDHS, including in-person at their offices, via USPS, email, or through dedicated drop boxes available on St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. There are also fax facilities for document submission.

For further assistance or questions about the submission process, recipients should contact their caseworker or the Certification Unit Offices using the contact numbers provided for their specific island. Additionally, EBT card balances can be checked by calling the toll-free number or by using the designated EBT App.

The V.I. Department of Public Works (DPW) has released new guidelines for political advertising across the territory, effective from June 1, 2024. With the election season on the horizon, these rules will govern the display of political advertisements for a six-month period leading up to the electoral event.

Candidates intending to use DPW-sanctioned advertising spaces must first obtain an advertising device permit. This regulation ensures that all political signage is properly vetted by the Election System of the Virgin Islands and adheres to strict location guidelines, especially those prohibiting placement within fifty feet of the centerline of any public road.

Designated areas for such advertisements are specified in the permit application documentation. Moreover, political signs on private property require a written endorsement from the property owner, which must be submitted to the DPW.

The department has also issued a warning regarding the removal of non-compliant signs. If political signs are found in unauthorized locations, it is the responsibility of the applicants to remove them. Failure to do so will result in the DPW taking action, with a removal fee of $150 per sign. Furthermore, any unapproved political signs currently on display must be dismantled by Friday, April 27, 2024.

For access to permit applications and more detailed information on the regulations, candidates and advertisers are encouraged to visit the DPW’s official website at dpw.vi.gov, specifically under the permits section.