Two more candidates officially kicked off their campaigns on Tuesday night on Tortola.

 

National Democratic Party incumbent Mark Vanterpool launched his Fourth District bid at the Band Stand in Road Town, while Virgin Islands Party newcomer Rajah Smith launched in District Two at Cane Garden Bay Park.

Mr. Vanterpool, who is running to represent the Fourth District, drew a crowd of at least 100 people, many of whom spent the evening enthusiastically waving signs, or blowing horns and whistles.

The incumbent, known to his supporters as “the action man,” said he had improved his district in numerous ways, including ridding the streets of raw sewage, establishing the revitalised Crafts Alive Village, completing the Manse Road/Paul P. Wattley bypass, widening Sugar Mill Road, and providing assistance to children during his annual Back to School Fair.

Mr. Vanterpool, however, acknowledged that some neighbourhoods in District Four still lack a consist supply of public water.

“We do have many challenges, and we are very concerned about many persons not receiving water consistently or not receiving water at all,” he said. “However, I want you to know that we are working day and night to provide water to everyone possible over the coming months.”

According to Mr. Vanterpool, the NDP is reviewing water production agreements to find “a sustainable and cost effective water supply for the territory.”

Meanwhile, in CGB, Mr. Smith told residents that when it’s time to cast their ballots June 8, they shouldn’t worry about the age of the candidates they’re voting for.

Dressed in a black suit and green tie, the 32-year-old businessman addressed a gathering of about 40 people, outlining projects he hopes to undertake should he be elected.

Firstly, Mr. Smith hopes to address “sewerage issues,” he said. 

“I pledge that, on the sewerage issue, we will reconstruct or relocate the sewerage plant in Cane Garden Bay to accommodate the 2,500 residential and commercial population with the possibility of submerging the pump station so it would not affect the school,” Mr. Smith said.

He pledged other infrastructure improvements for the district as well.

“I propose building sidewalks throughout the district in areas such as Cane Garden Bay from bridge to bridge, Brewers Bay, Jost Van Dyke, just to name a few,” he said.

Mr. Smith also promised improved street lighting, wider roads, and an upgrade to the area’s drainage.

See the May 28, 2015 edition for full coverage.

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