Limetree Bay Refinery Settlement Reached

In a significant development for residents and property owners in the U.S. Virgin Islands, a court-authorized settlement has been reached in a class action lawsuit involving the Limetree Bay Refinery. The settlement, totaling $59,795,000, aims to compensate those who suffered harm due to release incidents at the refinery from February to May 2021.

The incidents, which occurred over a four-month period, led to a series of legal actions against several defendants, including ArcLight, Freepoint, EIG, LBV, LBE, and additional contractor defendants. These companies vehemently denied any wrongdoing but agreed to the settlement to avoid the costs associated with prolonged litigation.

According to the terms of the settlement, the Gross Settlement fund of $59,795,000 will be used to provide compensation to eligible Settlement Class Members who suffered harm as a result of the release incidents. The fund will cover various types of damages, including property damage, nuisance, trespass, economic losses, cistern-related physical impact, physical and emotional health manifestations, and non-reimbursed out-of-pocket expenses.

To be eligible for compensation, individuals must have owned or rented property in the affected geographic area on or after February 3, 2021, or resided, worked, owned, or operated a business in the area during the period from February 3, 2021, to May 26, 2021. The affected geographic area is detailed on the Settlement Website, [www.LimetreeBaySettlement.com](www.LimetreeBaySettlement.com).

Settlement Class Members must file a Claim Form with all requested information and documentation by November 3, 2026. The Claim Form can be filed online at the website or downloaded and submitted by mail. The settlement process is overseen by Co-Lead Class Counsel from Berger Montague PC, Miller Thibodeaux Dysart Veith & Paschal, LLC, and Burns Charest LLP, who will petition the Court for payment of legal fees and reasonable expenses from the Settlement fund.

Individuals who wish to exclude themselves from the settlement can opt out by mailing a written notice to the Settlement Administrator, postmarked by October 27, 2026. Those who opt out will not receive a settlement payment but will not be bound by the settlement. The Court will hold a Final Approval Hearing on December 14, 2026, to consider the approval of the settlements, Class Counsel's attorneys' fees and costs, and any objections.