Dec. 27, 2005 – Word on the street is that since the Motor Vehicle Bureau has separated from the V.I. Police Department, services are already beginning to improve.
Jerris Browne, acting director of MVB, won't argue that. He said Tuesday, "We have been stressing customer service and cutting down waiting times."
However, Browne would not comment on specific initiatives he has taken since his appointment. He is expected to appear before the Senate in a confirmation hearing sometime in January and wants to give that information directly to the senators.
He was appointed acting director on Nov. 7. The Senate passed the bill making the bureau independent on Sept. 27, and Gov. Charles W. Turnbull signed it into law on Oct. 12. (See Senate Approves District Police Chiefs, MVB Independence.) Equipment and personnel were to begin transferring to the new department on Oct. 27.
Browne said, "I think employees are a lot more motivated now. There is a change in attitude."
He explained that his job was now to make the transition happen. "I will be working with all departments to make this happen."
He pointed out the Waste Management Authority was created out of the Department of Public Works more than a year ago, but that issues of transition are still being worked out there.
Browne added, "I am really trying to build a structure here. There is no framework yet."
He said he is still working without an administrative staff and is working to put together a management team.
Sen. Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg, argued for the bill, saying, "If something is wrong, try something else."
Browne said, "I don't think the governor, the Senate or anyone is interested in keeping the status quo."
Browne indicated that he is going to be asking the Senate for funding help in order make the bureau more efficient. Donastorg has noted that the bureau has been plagued with shortages in resources and staff for at least the past 10 years.
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