Dear Source:
I hesitate to sink to the level of Rob Pfriender's response to four simple questions but feel compelled to do so.
Mr. Pfriender, it's beyond me, how four questions proffered to you could insight such a vitriolic response. Obviously a lack of your knowledge concerning St. John spawned a personal attack upon Mrs. Fahey, and your lack of knowledge about me has now provoked a similar attack.
The only correct statement you have made about me is that I do live on Lovango Cay.
I moved to Lovango after living on St. John for over 25 years, where I participated in most public meeting and community efforts.
My monster home, as you have defined it, consists of ½ acre and a 1200 sq. ft. frame house with a thirty five year old wooden dock, hardly an exclusive private island enclave,
The building of my house required no variance; permits were issued without problem and my self and three others built the house. So, wrong again, Mr. Pfriender. Over developed, I don't think so. Lovango Cay now has a population of five, that's people not residences. This is approximately two hundred fewer people than lived here during the 1800s. So even if I counted my dogs, cat, two sheep and several chickens could I consider it, as you have stated, ruthlessly over developed.
You further state that open space and over development on St. John are not the problems. Well good, you got part of that right. The park offers plenty of open space and that in itself is a problem as it shrinks the developable portion of the island by two thirds, much of which is not build able. St. John lacks the space and infrastructure for large developments, especially by those such as Sirenusa, who have continually violated their permits and taken on an I don't care attitude.
You mention the lack of berries and grass on Lovango, which by the way currently covers the island, which brings to my mind that Long Island was once berries and grass but look at it now. This is exactly what we don't want to happen to St. John.
Mr. Pfriender, if you can get your facts straight give me a call at 340-643-0089 and we can discuss it further, or would you just prefer to meet at high noon.
Wally Leopold
Lovango Cay, V.I.
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