The Committee on Culture, Youth, Aging, Sports and Parks of the Legislature of the U.S. Virgin Islands convened on June 11, 2025, to address ongoing concerns regarding the Pali Joseph Stadium project. The meeting highlighted significant frustrations among committee members over the lack of accountability and transparency from the contractors involved in the stadium's construction.

Senator Franklin D. Johnson opened the discussion by expressing his disappointment with the repeated requests for additional funding, despite previous assurances that prior allocations would suffice. He emphasized the need for accountability, suggesting that the government should engage a bonding agency to ensure that contractors fulfill their obligations. Johnson stated, "We cannot continue playing games with this because this is government money," underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Vice Chair Senator Carla J. Joseph echoed these sentiments, criticizing the absence of key officials who were expected to provide updates on the project. She described the lack of communication as disrespectful to both the committee and the public, emphasizing the importance of honoring the legacy of Pali Joseph, after whom the stadium is named. Joseph called for a project schedule to be submitted to the legislature, highlighting the need for clear timelines and accountability.

Other senators, including Marvin A. Blyden and Novell E. Francis Jr., expressed similar frustrations, noting that the project has been ongoing for over a decade with little progress. Blyden remarked on the disrespect shown by the absence of officials, while Francis Jr. pointed out that the community has been waiting far too long for updates on the stadium's status. He called for potential legal action against the contractors if accountability measures are not implemented.

Senator Avery L. Lewis emphasized the need for collaboration between the government and the community to restore trust in the process. He proposed regular status reports on the project to ensure transparency moving forward.

The committee's discussions culminated in a consensus on the necessity of holding contractors accountable and ensuring that the Pali Joseph Stadium project is completed in a timely manner. The senators expressed their commitment to taking action, including the possibility of issuing subpoenas to compel the attendance of absent officials in future meetings.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency for accountability and transparency in the management of public funds was clear, with committee members determined to advocate for the community's interests and ensure the completion of the stadium project.