VI Taxicab Commission Under Scrutiny for Financial Mismanagement

Vernice Gumbs, the VI Taxicab Commission’s Executive Director, found herself at the center of a rigorous inquiry by the Senate Committee on Budget, Appropriations, and Finance. The Committee, led by Senator Donna Frett-Gregory, voiced their profound dissatisfaction with the Commission’s ongoing operational issues, notably the absence of a comprehensive budget proposal for the 2024 fiscal year.

Despite multiple opportunities to present a financial plan, the Commission failed to do so, leading to a restricted funding allocation that covered only personnel expenses. “The Taxicab Commission’s budgetary needs for FY ‘24 remain unclear, and we eagerly await their detailed financial report,” Senator Frett-Gregory remarked.

In her appearance before the Committee, Gumbs requested $1.5 million in funding, highlighting that a significant portion would bolster staff compensation and fringe benefits. She also proposed a nearly $480,000 investment in a digital transformation initiative aimed at enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of the Commission’s services.

However, Gumbs struggled to provide essential revenue data when pressed by the lawmakers, revealing a lack of concrete financial records for the St. Thomas/St. John district. This gap was attributed to internal resistance and inefficiencies, as highlighted by a troubling incident with a collection clerk.

Despite presenting an “unofficial summary” of revenues amounting to $211,838.37 for the district, the lack of formal financial oversight prompted Senator Frett-Gregory to critique the Commission’s internal management. “Your responsibility includes ensuring daily financial transparency and accountability, a standard which seems not to have been met,” she expressed.

The absence of formal 2024 revenue figures and incomplete data for the previous fiscal year painted a troubling picture for the Committee. Concerns deepened with revelations that the Commission’s budget proposal lacked official board approval and that a former employee continued receiving paychecks post-departure, a matter now involving the Department of Justice.

The situation elicited criticism from multiple senators, with Senator Javan James Jr. questioning the Commission’s ability to address basic operational challenges, like ensuring a stable internet connection. Meanwhile, Senator Kenneth Gittens voiced a stern stance against further funding until substantial reforms are enacted, suggesting an overarching regulatory approach that might also encompass emerging transportation services.

As the Committee deferred a decision on the budget request, Gumbs committed to providing updated financial details soon. The ongoing scrutiny of the Taxicab Commission underscores the urgent need for transparency, efficiency, and reform to restore confidence in its operations.