PHILIPSBURG:--- Increasing concern is being voiced regarding the overall performance and direction of the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment & Infrastructure (VROMI) under the leadership of Secretary General Mr. Kenson Plaisimond, who assumed the position on September 1st, 2024.
The recently issued report by the General Audit Chamber of St. Maarten highlighted significant shortcomings, citing that the Secretary General does not possess the technical expertise required to manage the Ministry or evaluate building permits effectively — one of VROMI’s core responsibilities. Research further indicates that Mr. Plaisimond’s professional background is limited to a Bachelor’s degree in ICT, with no prior managerial experience overseeing a ministry of this scale or complexity.
Staff Morale and Internal Operations Deteriorating
Since his appointment, there has been no Ministry plan, strategic direction, or formal outline presented by the Secretary General on how he intends to address the challenges facing VROMI. Staff members within the Ministry report low morale, lack of motivation, and increasingly heavy workloads, stemming from chronic understaffing and an absence of administrative leadership.
Sources within VROMI describe the internal climate as “uncertain and directionless,” noting that operational matters are often delayed or left unattended.
Deteriorating Public Infrastructure and Delayed Responses
Across the island, residents and businesses continue to express frustration with:
- Proliferating potholes and declining roadway conditions
- Delayed or insufficient repairs to critical infrastructure
- Persistent flooding issues, even during moderate rainfall
- Slow response times to public concerns
Despite the urgency of these matters, there has been no comprehensive strategy communicated by the Ministry on how these challenges will be resolved.
Outstanding Policy Matters Remain Unaddressed
The community also awaits clarity and follow-up on the Deedum Arrest and the Land Issuance Policy, both of which remain unresolved and have yet to be formally presented to Parliament. Stakeholders emphasize that these matters carry significant implications for governance, public trust, and land management across St. Maarten.
Travel Without Tangible Outcomes
Since taking office, Mr. Plaisimond has frequently accompanied the Minister of VROMI, Mr. Patrice Gumbs Jr., on official travel. However, Ministry staff and the public alike question the lack of measurable results, noting that key problems continue to escalate despite these trips.
A Call for Immediate Action
With escalating operational deficiencies, worsening public infrastructure, and declining staff morale, stakeholders stress that urgent corrective action is needed. Effective leadership, technical competency, and a clear strategic plan are essential to restoring the Ministry’s capacity to serve the people of St. Maarten.
