USVI Revises Horse Racing Deal
The US Virgin Islands government has forwarded a revised public-private agreement with SGVI, Inc. (formerly Southland Gaming) that adds a five-year promoter commitment, tightens reporting and revenue sharing, and removes a proposed full tax exemption. Governor Albert Bryan says the changes respond to horsemen and legislative concerns and the measure will be taken up by the Legislature in mid-July.
Virgin Islands has submitted an amended agreement with SGVI, Inc. (formerly Southland Gaming of the VI) that would rebuild the Randall “Doc” James Racetrack on St. Croix and support operations at the Clinton E. The revised package, transmitted to the Senate in a July 1 letter from Governor Albert Bryan, follows weeks of meetings with horsemen, the Legislature and the gaming company after the original agreement was sent on April 28, 2026.
Key changes require SGVI to remain the promoter of horse racing for at least five years — a provision Government House says was requested by horsemen — and remove a proposed full exemption from gross receipts taxes for entertainment activities at the racetracks. The amendment also adds quarterly reporting of gaming revenue to the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation, the Legislature, the Horse Racing Commission and the recognized Horsemen’s Organizations, and mandates quarterly disbursements to those organizations in each district.
The revised deal increases the contribution to the St. John Horsemen Association from 3% to 6% of racino revenue at the Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack. "These are meaningful revisions that directly respond to the concerns raised during our discussions," Governor Bryan said, adding that the administration worked with Southland Gaming and the Legislature to produce "a stronger and more balanced agreement." Government House described the transmittal as the product of multiple meetings, including sessions on June 12 with representatives of the St.
John Horsemen Association and Southland Gaming; follow-ups with horsemen leaders and company representatives; and discussions with the 36th Legislature on June 24 and June 25. Bryan framed the proposal around community benefits and youth engagement, saying restoring horse racing could provide structured activities for young people and revive opportunities for owners, trainers, jockeys and vendors. "One of the strongest reasons for moving this agreement forward is the opportunity horse racing creates for our young people," he said.
All unchanged documents from the April 28 submission remain part of the package, and Government House says timely legislative consideration is needed to maintain momentum on rebuilding St. Croix and restoring benefits lost during the racetrack's prolonged closure. Potter, has agreed to consider the revised measure in mid-July.
For residents of the British Virgin Islands, the deal may hold regional significance: renewed racetrack activity in the USVI could boost inter-island tourism, provide seasonal employment and offer a model for balancing private investment with transparent revenue sharing and community oversight.
Primary source: VINO