The Virgin Islands Port Authority Board of Governors (O.O.G.)

In accordance with Virgin Islands Code Title 29 Chapter 10 § 541 the Virgin Islands Port Authority Board of Governors is established. The Governing Board of VIPA shall be composed of members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Legislature; 

The Board shall be composed of 9 members as follows: 

Establishes policies and provides oversight for the operations, safety, and infrastructure of the Virgin Islands Port Authority.

Approves budgets, major contracts, and capital projects.

Supports economic growth and the development of ports, harbors, and airports.

Ensures compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and best practices.

Participates actively in regular and emergency board meetings, including those held via telecommunication when urgent action is required.

Safeguards the Authority’s assets while promoting transparency, accountability, and public trust.

Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable: transportation, maritime or aviation operations, finance, law, engineering, economic development, public administration, or business management.

Knowledge of governance, fiduciary responsibilities, and the role of public authorities.

Understanding of port operations, transportation infrastructure, economic development, and community impacts.

Skills in strategic planning, decision-making, and problem-solving.

Ability to work collaboratively with other board members, government officials, and stakeholders.

Ability to communicate effectively, exercise discretion, and act in the best interest of the Virgin Islands community.

Each Board shall elect annually one of its members to serve as its Chair; Appointed members may be removed by the Governor for cause; The Board may appoint committees from its membership. To effectively perform its duties under the Act, the Board may also hire, discipline and terminate staff, including an executive secretary or director. It shall also be assigned adequate legal counsel by the Office of the Attorney General and may employ private counsel or its own full-time attorney.

The term of office for appointed members is three (3) years, with eligibility for reappointment. Persons appointed to fill a vacancy will serve for the remainder of the unexpired term. Governmental members receive no compensation. Nongovernmental appointed members receive $50.00 per day (or fraction thereof) spent on Authority business. All members are entitled to reimbursement or per diem for necessary travel expenses incurred in the performance of official duties.

Service on the VIPA Board of Governors carries significant responsibility in shaping the future of the Virgin Islands’ critical transportation and economic infrastructure. Decisions made by the Board affect the operation, safety, and prosperity of the territory’s ports, airports, and harbors, directly influencing tourism, commerce, and community well-being.