Saint Barthelemy was for many years a French commune forming part of Guadeloupe, which is an overseas region and department of France. Through a referendum in 2003, island residents sought separation from the administrative jurisdiction of Guadeloupe, and it was finally accomplished in 2007. The island of Saint Barthelemy became an Overseas Collectivity (COM). A governing territorial council was elected for its administration, which has provided the island with a certain degree of autonomy. The Hotel de Ville, which was the town hall, is now the Hotel de la Collectivite. A senator represents the island in Paris. St. Barthelemy has retained its free port status.
Try to answer this question if possible (otherwise reply "unanswerable"): When did St. Barts finally received its independence?
2007