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MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF GENERAL COUNCIL HELD ON THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017
The monthly meeting of the St. Mary Municipal Corporation was held on Thursday, May 11, 2017 in the Corporation’s Chambers, Port Maria Civic Centre, commencing at 10:10 a.m.
Present were:-
Councillors Divisions
Richard Creary (Chairman) Richmond Lincoln Dixon Islington Doreen Hutchinson Carron Hall Paul Fyffe Highgate Germaine Smiley Port Maria Mitsy Hudson Hampstead Hugh Bryan Annotto Bay Lenford Danvers Castleton Jason James Gayle
The following Councillor(s) came during the course of the meeting:
Krystal Lee Retreat Levan Freeman Belfield Sheldon Kidd Oracabessa Leroy Sewell Boscobel
Officers Positions
Rovel Morris Acting Chief Executive Officer Glenford Ricketts Deputy Chief Engineering Officer Yanique Samuels Director of Administration Sean Hylton Acting Director of Planning Lincoln Brooks Inspector of Poor Patrice Hart Chief Financial Officer Raxine Bailey Community Programmes Coordinator Angella Lammie Internal Auditor Yolande Jankie Parish Coordinator- Disaster Preparedness Uraih Cameron Management Information Systems Sharon Burke Matron Debbie Pryce Recording Clerk
Representatives/Agencies Positions
Albert P. Brown Chief Public Health Inspector- St. Mary Health Department Kenneth Forrester Assistant Superintendent - Jamaica Fire Brigade Travis Graham Parish Manager – Social Development Commission Andre Pryce Land Management Officer – RADA Errol Sinclair Chairman, Parish Action Committee
NOTICE
The Notice convening the meeting was read by Mr. Rovel Morris, Acting Clerk to the Committee.
DEVOTIONAL EXERCISE
Devotional exercise was conducted by Pastor Michael Beckford, Port Maria Division.
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The Chairman thanked Pastor Beckford for conducting the devotional exercise.
NATIONAL PLEDGE
The attendees repeated the National Pledge.
(COUNCILLOR LEE JOINED THE MEETING)
WELCOME AND APOLOGIES
The Chairman welcomed all present. He especially welcomed Mr. Doyen Johnson, Chief Engineering Officer to the parish and the Corporation.
Apologies were tendered on behalf of Dr. Tamara Henry, Acting Medical Officer (Health), who would be absent, Mr. Travis Graham, Parish Manager, SDC, who would be late and Mr. Stanley Davis, Commercial Services and Enforcement Supervisor, who was attending Court.
OPENING REMARKS
The Chairman informed that there has been an increase in the amount allocated for the Local Economic Development Fund; that it has increased to Three Hundred Thousand ($300,000.00) Dollars per Division from Two Hundred Thousand ($200,000.00) Dollars. He said he was looking into making a similar allocation within another six months, not necessarily the same amount. He added that the allocation was once per year however, he would like the allocation to be twice per year. He said for those Councillors who were not aware of the purpose of the funds; that it was intended to make persons self-sufficient; that they should inform those they are giving assistance that the reason for the fund is to empower them to start a business of their own, for example, assisting with farming inputs, starting a chicken business or stocking out a shop, etc.
He reminded the members that Labour Day would be on Tuesday, May 23, 2017; that the theme was “To Restore, Preserve and Beautify”. He said based on the theme, an historical site or building should be restored and beautified. He also informed that each Division has been allocated an amount of Sixty-five Thousand ($65,000.00) Dollars and that was to assist with food and or materials for the work that would be done in the respective communities. He said the Councillors would be required to provide invoices from the various suppliers to the Corporation and then payments would be made. He said in terms of the parish project, an allocation of Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand ($250,000.00) Dollars were received; that a Labour Day Meeting was scheduled for 2:00 p.m. later in the afternoon to make a decision in regards to what the parish project should be.
The Chairman said in terms of the Parochial Revenue Fund (PRF), three Divisions namely, Annotto Bay, Retreat and Castleton have been allocated the amount of One Million Six Hundred ($1,600,000.00) Dollars each specifically for the rehabilitation of a road or a drain. He said we were supposed to be receiving some garbage drums from Beaches Boscobel; that he tried to reach Mr. Spencer earlier that morning in regards to the amount however, was not successful; that it seemed to be a significant amount; that he mentioned some in the region of one hundred or more. He added that Mr. Spencer made an offer; that he had given some to St. Ann Municipal Corporation and he also had some for St. Mary. He said as soon as they were received, they would be allocated to Councillors accordingly.
The Chairman informed that he, the Deputy Chief Engineering Officer, representatives from the Mines and Geology Division and the National Works Agency along with the individuals operating the Mine, went on a tour of the Westmoreland Bridge and a section of the Wag Water River, on Wednesday of the previous week. He said there were serious concerns especially under the Westmoreland Bridge; that the height of the river has fallen about 12 feet and the boulders used to protect the abutments have been washed away and therefore the foundation of the abutments were being threatened. He said there was suspicion that the
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mining that was being done in the area contributed significantly to the current situation over time. He said it was his opinion that mining should not be taking place anywhere near the river. He said the individuals have made application to Mines and Geology for mining and he was informed that as long as it was taking place one hundred meters (100m) away, it would not affect the river. He said he had a serious concern with that; he said he suggested that the river could return to its former height by creating a barrier downstream so that as the material came down it would gradually lift the height of the river. He said the Corporation was an agency that was required to comment on those licences and while they were there it was pointed out to them that in recent times such application have been sent to the Corporation for comment and we have not commented. He said the Deputy Chief Engineering Officer informed that he, in the past, used to be tasked with visiting those sites and commented on those applications however, they were now being filed away. He said the Deputy Chief Engineering Officer agreed that mining should not be done so close to the river as he also had concerns.
The Chief Public Health Inspector informed that from time to time the Health Department received such applications for its comment and the required inspections were usually carried out and comments and recommendations made by the Department.
ON A MOTION MOVED BY COUNCILLOR JAMES, SECONDED BY COUNCILLOR FYFFE, THE STANDING ORDERS WERE SUSPENDED TO ALLOW A PRESENTATION.
Mr. Errol Sinclair, Parish Action Committee Chairman said he would like to bring the members’ attention to the new buzz words for the 4H-Club, which were “Caster Beans”; that more persons were recognizing the benefits of the beans and were using them for varied products. He informed that his team would like to reactivate the 4H-Clubs in the parish; that there were many benefits to be derived from the clubs. He added that they wanted to take it to a value added level. He also informed that the top girl and boy for the year were from the parish of St. Thomas and they each received One Million Dollars. He said he would like to be invited again to make a presentation using audio visuals aid to excite Councillors of the ideas.
The Chairman said the Corporation could accommodate that presentation at the next sitting which was scheduled for June 8, 2017.
The Chairman thanked Mr. Sinclair for his presentation.
(COUNCILLOR KIDD JOINED THE MEETING)
ON A MOTION MOVED BY COUNCILLOR JAMES, SECONDED BY COUNCILLOR FYFFE, THE STANDING ORDERS WERE RESUMED.
CORRECTIONS
Page 1: 1. “Kirk Roberts, Acting Parish Coordinator, Disaster Preparedness” should read: “Yolande Jankie, Parish Coordinator, Disaster Preparedness”
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
The Minutes of General Council Meeting held April 13, 2017 having been circulated, read and corrected, was confirmed on a motion by Councillor Hudson, seconded by Councillor Hutchinson.
MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
Community Project -Balmoral
It was noted that the Corporation was committing Four Million Dollars ($4,000,000.00) to a project in the community. It was also noted that the Chairman sent a letter to Minister McKenzie in regards to the
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Ministry matching the Corporation’s funds so that it would amount to Eight Million Dollars ($8,000,000.00) to do projects within Balmoral.
The Acting Chief Executive Officer presented letter dated May 2, 2017 from Minister McKenzie as under:
“ I am in receipt of your letter dated March 31, 2017 underlying the point that the Corporation has embarked on a project to reward the community with the highest property tax compliance with a project of their choice.
Additionally, you stated that the Municipal Corporation has committed Four Million ($4,000,000.00) Dollars and as such, seeking partnership with the Ministry to increase the amount to Eight Million ($8,000,000.00) Dollars.
I must commend the initiative and applaud the work of the Municipal Corporation however, regrettably I am unable to honour the request.
It is simply impossible to do so at this time. Notwithstanding, I encourage the Municipality to carry out the programme in the best way possible.
Yours sincerely,
Desmond McKenzie, CD, JP, MP Minister
The Committee noted.
Green House Project – (Design for Garbage Receptacles using Recycled Material)
It was noted that the project was funded by JICA in the amount of One Million Dollars.
The Chairman said he was still awaiting the information that was requested. He asked that the Acting Chief Executive Officer request an update from the PDC.
ACTION: ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
(A) ENERGY CONSERVATION
The Chief Engineering Officer informed that there was a proposal from the PCJ for a joint site visit which was scheduled for Friday, May 19, 2017. He said they were awaiting confirmation and based on that visit, the Corporation would be advised thereafter.
(B) PORT MARIA MARKET RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT
The Acting Chief Executive Officer presented Memorandum dated May 9, 2017 from the Deputy Chief Engineering Officer re Port Maria Market Project as under:
“The above caption is a matter being reported on at our General Council Meeting, where a new market is proposed, the project was tendered and retendered at the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development.
The stage of the process when last checked on Tuesday May 9, 2017 was that it’s at the evaluation stage and this was the reporting given at our last Council sitting. I am hereby requesting that an update be sought from the Permanent Secretary so that the Corporation can update the respective committee and stakeholders.
The Chairman asked that a letter be written to the Permanent Secretary in that regard.
ACTION: ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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(C) EXCHANGE OF LAND/PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT – MURDOCK BEACH
It was noted that Golden Eye Development wanted to do a land swap with the Corporation; that the UDC was to upgrade the Fisherman’s Beach at a cost of M$7.4; the UDC said funds were not available; that the Golden Eye Development said they would advance the funds for the UDC.
The Chairman said he made contact with Mr. Ransford Graham and was told that he had not received the letter. He said he was given an email address so he would send the letter directly to him; that he was hopeful that by the next sitting a response would have been received from him.
(D) RESOLUTION – REPAIR HOUSE
It was noted that the amount of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000.00) would be allocated to each Division to assist with Indigent Housing in the new financial year.
The Chairman said Minister McKenzie in his presentation again mentioned that an amount would be allocated to the Corporations and also to each Division. He said how it would work was that Councillors would make recommendation in terms of persons whom they wanted to assist however, the Poor Relief Department would carry out the required assessment to ensure the validity. He added that the Poor Relief Department would also receive an allocation for Housing Assistance however, it would be for those persons who were registered on the Pauper Roll.
(E) UNITS TO BE USED AT CASTLETON HEALTH CENTRE
It was noted that there were desks and bed frames available; that persons from the Ministry of Health came to examine them.
Councillor Danvers informed that arrangement was made with the Deputy Chief Engineering Officer to pick up the furniture.
(F) CLAIM NO 2011/HCV-00232 SEYMOUR MORALES V ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL AND ATTORNEY GENERAL OF JAMAICA
The Director of Administration informed that there was no further update on the matter.
(G) PALMERS PARK
The Chairman requested that the Chief Engineering Officer take a look at Palmers Park along with Mr. Fisher, the Officer assigned to the project; that some soil was spread and the field graded however, he was told that there may some areas where water was settling and may need some more soil.
The Chairman said he had received a letter from Councillor Smiley however, it was not what he requested had and he was still awaiting the correct letter as per discussion.
ACTION: CHIEF ENGINEERING OFFICER
(H) UPDATE ON WATER TRUCK
The Acting Chief Executive Officer informed that the invoices were sent to the Ministry; that the schedule for Trucking of Water was presented from the Roads and Works Department. He said he would follow up on the matter after the meeting was concluded regarding the funds.
The Chairman informed that he had discussion recently with the Chief Engineering Officer on the matter; that there were two issues, one being the request for virement of funds to repair water truck; that the repairs have not yet started and second being the schedule for trucking of water. He said he did not get a chance to look at it however, the matter of the repairs of the truck needed urgent attention.
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Councillor Hutchinson said she has not seen the schedule and to date no water has been trucked to the Carron Hall Division.
The Chairman informed Councillor Hutchinson that no water was trucked to any of the Divisions since the last sitting. He enquired whether or not the funds were received from the Ministry for trucking of water.
The Chief Financial Officer responded that it was not received.
The Chairman requested that the Chief Executive Officer follow up the matter.
ACTION: CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS – CORPORATION TO SIT AS LOCAL BOARD OF HEALTH
ON A MOTION BY COUNCILLOR JAMES, SECONDED BY COUNCILLOR SMILEY, THE STANDING ORDERS WERE SUSPENDED.
LOCAL BOARD OF HEALTH
BUTCHERS LICENCE
Nil
BEAUTY THERAPISTS/COSMETOLOGISTS/HAIRDRESSERS/BARBERS
The Director of Planning presented the following for approval:
No. Name of Applicant Name & Address of Type of Licence Establishment 1 Marilyn White Charles Town Hairdresser
2 Nickesha Bell Amiel Town Beauty Therapist
3 Hillary Hinds Bonham Spring, Ocho Rios Beauty Therapist 4 Francia Binns Clay Ground, St. Ann Beauty Therapist
5 Lisa Mitchell Greenwich Acres H/Scheme, St. Massage Therapist Ann’s Bay 6 Nathalee Ramsay Geddes Town Massage Therapist
7 Ivorine Harris Highgate Hairdresser
8 Phillipa Thomas Geddes Mountain Cosmetologist
9 Judith Suah Buckfield, Ocho Rios Beauty Therapist
10 Andrene Bucknal Free Hill Cosmetologist
11 Loraine Ebanks Port Maria Beauty Therapist
12 Melissa Thompson Buckfield, Ocho Rios Beauty Therapist
13 Lasonya Meeks Tower Isle Massage Therapist
14 Glenroy Lovest Race Course Barber
15 Zonieann Rose Gray’s Street, Port Maria Trainee Licence
16 Kadean Reynolds-Davis Highgate Cosmetologist
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ON A MOTION MOVED BY COUNCILLOR HUDSON SECONDED BY COUNCILLOR BRYAN, THE COMMITTEE APPROVED.
(COUNCILLOR SEWELL JOINED THE MEETING)
Environmental Health Highlights April, 2017
Water Quality Monitoring
A total of thirty seven (37) visits were made to water supplies from all three (3) entities providing water in the parish. Fifteen (15) samples were submitted for bacteriological analysis to the National Public Health Lab.
Thirty seven (37) chlorine residual checks were done. The results of bacteriological analysis and chlorine residual testing are shown in the tables below-
Chlorine Residual
# (%) (satisfactory) # (unsatisfactory) Agency No. of Samples positive (%) negative NWC 8 7(87.5%) 1(12.5%)
Parish Council 24 14(58%) 10(42%)
Private Supplies 05 4(80%) 1(20%)
Total 37 25(68%) 12(32%)
Bacteriological Sampling
No. of Samples No. Satisfactory No. Unsatisfactory Results Agencies Submitted (Negative)(%) (Positive)(%) Pending NWC 4 4(100%) 0 0 Parish Council 8 3(37.5%) 5(62.5%) 0 Private 3 3(100%) 0 0 Total 15 10(67%) 5(33%) 0
Drinking Water Status
No. Inspected Agency No. of Supplies No. Treated (%) (%) NWC 20 8(40%) 19(95%) Parish Council 42 24(57%) 32(76%)
Private 15 5(33%) 13(87%)
From the results received from bacteriological samples submitted 67% were satisfactory. Sixty eight percent (68%) of chlorine residuals checks done were satisfactory. Unsatisfactory chlorine residual and/ or bacteriological sample results were obtained from the following supplies: Petersfield, Hindsville, mango Valley, Point Spring, Saltrum, Skinner Spring, Tinsburry, May River, Gilbert Spring and Rose Mount.
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Building Plans and Subdivisions
No. Received No. Investigated #.Recommended #Not Recommended
Building Plans 27 27 24 3 Subdivisions 3 3 3 0 Total 30 30 27 3
A total of twenty seven (27) building plans and three subdivisions were received. Twenty four (24) building plans were recommended from the twenty seven (27) that were investigated Plans were not recommended for the following reasons: 1) Inappropriate sewage disposal system proposed for location
Burial Site Inspection
Thirty five (35) applications were received for family plot burial. All were investigated and recommendations made. A list of the applications was submitted to the Parish Council.
Mosquito Control
Aedes Surveillance Aedes Breateau # of # of # of # of Container Premises Index District Premises Premises Containers Containers Index Index Inspected Positive Found Positive (%) (%) Port Maria: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
GAYLE:
Caron Hall 195 20 377 36 10 9 18 Lucky Hill 105 9 213 20 9 9 9 Coffee Walk 74 13 210 24 18 11 32 TOTAL 374 42 800 80 11 10 21 ANNOTTO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 BAY:
HIGHGATE:
Capture land 190 27 513 79 14 15 42 Harmony Hall 50 7 102 9 14 9 18 TOTAL 240 34 615 88 14 14 37 PARISH 27 614 76 1415 168 12 12 TOTAL
The Vector Control team continued to carry out Aedes Aegypti surveillance in a number of communities throughout the parish. During the period five (5) communities were visited, the main focus was on the mitigation against Zika virus/fever transmission.
The table above shows the communities that were surveyed. All breeding sites found were treated in order to terminate breeding.
The average parish premises index was 12%. Four (4) of the communities visited had premises index above single digits. One locality,
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The Vector Control team distributed two hundred and twenty five (225) drum covers in high risk communities.
Fogging
Fogging activities were carried out in the following communities; Annotto Bay, Dover, Jacks River and Baileys Vale. Barber Shops and Hair Dressing Salon Application
No applications were received during the month
Water Flowing along the Roadway in the vicinity of Tong Ren Food Establishment Concerns were raised at a previous Local Board of Health meeting regarding the matter at caption. The possibility of this water being sewage was raised. The subsequent investigation done by the Health Department indicates that the water is not sewage and is likely to be from a burst NWC water main.It has also been noted by the team of inspectors that during periods of high tide this water seems to be more profuse suggesting that the high water table is a contributory factor.
Medical Services
The following medical missions/ groups will be visiting the parish in April and May. Free medical services will be offered as outlined in the schedules below: -
(1) Teams for Medical Missions (Medical Services)
Date Location Monday, May 8, 2017 Hamilton Mountain (New Testament Church) Tuesday, May 9, 2017 Days Mountain (Ebenezer Community Church) Wednesday, May 10, 2017 Boscobel United Church Thursday, May 11, 2017 Mango Valley (Maranatha Baptist Church) Friday, May 11, 2017 Mango Valley (Maranatha Baptist Church
(2) Deaconess Hospital Incorporated (Medical Services)
Date Location Monday April 24, 2017 Long Road Health Centre Tuesday, April 25, 2017 Robins Bay Health Centre Wednesday, April 26, 2017 Enfield Health Centre Thursday, April 27, 2017 Islington Health Centre
(3) Women at Real Risk (WARR) Medical Mission
Date Location Monday, April 24, 2017 Lewis Store Adventist Church Tuesday, April 25, 2017 Windsor Castle Health Centre Wednesday, April 26, 2017 Rock River Health Centre Friday, April 28, 2017 Mary Mount High School
Concerns /Questions/Highlights
Nil
QUESTION TO THE LOCAL BOARD OF HEALTH
Councillor James asked, “Is the Local Board of Health aware that there was a person of unsound mind in the Bonny Gate area?” He asked for the assistance of the Health Department.
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The Chief Public Health Inspector responded that the Health Department was equipped with a team of Mental Health Officers that could give some assistance. He asked the Councillor to provide additional information so that the matter could be addressed.
The Chairman thanked CPHI Brown for the report and participation. RESUMPTION OF COUNCIL
ON A MOTION BY COUNCILLOR JAMES, SECONDED BY COUNCILLOR KIDD, THE CORPORATION RESUMED SITTING.
REPORTS FROM AGENCIES AND COMMITTEES
(a) REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 2017
Kindly see below information on the Fire Statistics and Fire Prevention activities in the St. Mary Division, Area II, Jamaica Fire Brigade for the Month of April 2017.
FIRE STATISTICS
Genuine Fires 19 M.F.A. 02 S.S.C. 09
Total Calls 30
CLASSIFICATION OF GENUINE FIRES
Dwelling House 04 Bar 01 Bush/Rubbish 07 Motorcar 02 Utility Pole 01 Utility Wires 02 Coal Kiln 01 Tree 01
Total Genuine Fire Calls 19
Estimated Value of Property Loss $31,144,000.00 Estimated Value Property at Risk $5,137,850,000.00 Estimated Value of Property Saved $5,106,706,000.00
FIRE PREVENTION ACTIVITIES
The Fire Prevention Section of the St. Mary Division was engaged in the under listed activities during the Month of April 2017.
Inspection of Buildings:
Airport 01 Church 01 Multiple Purpose Hall 01 Industrial & Commercial 01 Schools 04 Clubs, Bars/Grills & Sporting Venues 03 Infirmary 01 Home for the Aged 01 Early Childhood Institution 16 Fuel Station 02
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Hotels/Guest Houses 02 Library 01 Fuel Station 02 Office 01 Banks 02 Educational Activities
Lectures 08 Fire Drills 09 Exhibition 02 Community Fire Safety Awareness 06 Television/Radio Broadcast 01 Video Presentation 03 Fire Warden Training 01
Fire Hydrants
No. of Fire Hydrants Inspected 21 No. of Fire Hydrants Repaired 05
Both fire Engines operated satisfactorily during the Month of April with minor defects.
Please note the under mentioned statistics and other relevant information for the period under review:
Fire Statistics
Please note the undermentioned statistics and other relevant information for the period under review:
Total M.F.A F.A.W.G .I S.S.C Genuine Other Structural Displaced Death Injury Calls
Mar 27 01 01 06 19 13 06 04 00 00
Apr 30 02 00 09 19 14 05 12 01 17
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The Brigade responded to one less structural fire however more persons were displaced in April than in March due to a higher rate of occupancy at the affected houses. Of the four motor vehicle accident responded to one person lost his life and seventeen others were injured. The accidents happened in Albion Mountain, Boscobell, Georgia and Port Maria Areas. When the Month of April is evaluated over the period April 2013- 2017, April 2017 falls below the average number of 35 calls for April 2013-2017 period.
Highlights/Concerns
Nil
The Chairman thanked Mr. Forrester, Assistant Superintendent, for his report.
(COUNCILLOR FREEMAN JOINED THE MEETING)
a) PDC
The PDC report was circulated.
The following outlines the activities of the St. Mary Parish Development Committee from April 11, 2017 to May 10, 2017. Executive Meeting Some members of the Executive met on Wednesday, May 3, 2017 to discuss upcoming activities. Executive’s Retreat. The Retreat of Executive will take place Saturday, May 13 to Sunday, May 14 with the aim to meet the following goals/objectives: 1. Outline the roles and functions of the PDC Executive and the Administrator. 2. Draft a Constitution for the PDC. 3. Establish priorities for the PDC. 4. Determine PDC Communications Strategy. 5. Formulate a PDC Operation/Work Plan for the next one or two years. 6. Establish a PDC Budget.
The Social Development Commission will facilitate the Retreat.
PDC General Meeting A General Meeting will be convened after the Retreat.
Financial Assistance
The Executive requested a contribution from St. Mary Municipal Corporation to offset some of the costs of the Office and the Retreat was sent to the Corporation.
Paggee Fishermen’s Regatta 2017
The Paggee Fishermen Regatta will be celebrating its 55th Anniversary on Wednesday August 9, 2017 at the Paggee Beach, Pt. Maria, St. Mary.
This event has grown into a National/International event, attracting both locals and visitors to the island.
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The Regatta is undoubtedly one of Jamaica’s Cultural tradition that should be preserved and sustained.
The St. Mary Parish Development Committee after a series of meeting with the stakeholders in Paggee is undertaking the management and execution of Regatta 2017.
We have written to the Jamaica 55 Secretariat through the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports for the Ministry to be the title sponsor. We are awaiting a date for a meeting to present a proposal to the Secretariat.
Planning Meetings will start in June, the month of May is being used to co-ordinate sponsorship. One of the main concerns of the stakeholders at Paggee is that the community on a whole does not benefit from the Regatta. This concern will be looked at for 2017.
National Youth Service Summer Programme
The PDC will be assisting the National Youth Service with the interviews for applicants for the Summer Programme from Wednesday, May 10, to Friday May 11, 2017.
ACTIVITIES OF JICA VOLUNTEER 1. Plastic Bottle Green House Project
Current Progress Framework has been installed at the site. However, bottle-tying work is behind schedule. Estimated complete time is end of June (1 month behind from original schedule).
A lot of people in the community are now aware of the project, and they are trying to collect the bottles for us. We still needs several thousands of bottles, therefore, we need to ask Parish Council for transportation support.
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Concerns
Number of Plastic Bottle - To be arranged with the support of Parish Council
Management of green house - To be discussed with community members and the PDC.
Level of cooperation - Only regular members are supporting the work, and we had to expel few members who had never showed up to help. Since we are behind schedule, it is becoming hard to sustain the level of motivation.
Support from Parish Council & Politicians - Will be inviting Parish representative and political to visit the site to increase members’ motivation.
Future Plan
Water tank installation - To be applied for JICA Funding program
Japanese Ambassador’s visit - Expected to be in July or August
Media Promotion - Gleaner (2nd), TVJ, Radio Station, Facebook
Workshop in Port Maria - Expected to be in July or August Ultimate Goal Eco-Friendly Park Plastic Bottle Building (School Facility, resident houses, etc.) Plastic Bottle Collection within Parish Enhancement of recycling within Parish
2. Annotto Bay Coastal Erosion
Background Rapid increase in sea level Risk of major flood Resource of funding
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Lack of specialist Lack of appropriate human resources Proposal development Lack of cooperation from local development entity
Team Structure
3. Other Upcoming Activities in the Parish
Environment education at local schools
Community Meeting
Construction of Garbage bin with plastic bottle (Estimate sent to Mayor)
Monthly community clean up to be organize
The Committee noted. b) Local Government Reform Nil
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c) ALGA
Nil d) SDC
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION MUNICIPAL CORPORATION REPORT APRIL 2017
SDC – Summary of Achievements for April 2016-March 2017 LEDSP – LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT PROGRAM
6 LEI Capacity plans Enfield Ginger Bear, Hampstead Water, Jacks River Taino, Carron Hall completed Agri, Elliot Farmers, Wag Water DAC Pastries
7 LEI’s receive Capacity Enfield Ginger Bear, Hampstead Water(2), Jacks River Taino, Carron Hall building Agri, Elliot Farmers, Wag Water DAC Pastries, Castleton Chocolate.
2 LEI Stories written Hampstead Water Project , Jacks River Taino Village
6 Business Models Enfield Ginger Bear, Hampstead Water, Jacks River Taino, Carron Hall Completed Agri, Wag Water DAC Pastries, Elliot Farmers
2 Business Plans Enfield Ginger Bear, Hampstead Water Completed 4 Business Fairs Held Port Maria Night Out, St Mary CASFest, St Mary Cricket Feature March, St Mary Parish Awards
PGFP – PARTICIPATORY GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK PROGRAM
4 CSO’s Established Annotto Bay DAC, Oracabessa DAC, Port Maria CDC, Lucky Hill CDC.
12 CSO received Capacity St Mary PDC (2), Wag Water DAC, Annotto Bay DAC, Wag water DAC, Interventions Highgate DAC, Enfield CDC, Bonny Gate CDC, Hampstead CDC, Highgate CDC, Gayle CDC, Annotto Bay CDC 6 Advocacy Plans Hampstead, Castleton, Charles Town, Clonmel, Bonny Gate, Camberwell Completed 4 Advocacy Forums Held Hampstead, Charles Town, Dover, Enfield
6 CSO’s increase Highgate DAC, Castleton, Amiel Town, Clonmel, Scotts Hall, Charles Town representation
2 CSO Assessments Belfield CDC, Dover CDC Completed
1 CDC Community St Mary Community Conference (Theme- The business of Community Conference Hosted Development)
PP & DP- PRIORITY PLAN AND PROJECT DEVELOPEMNT PROGRAM
6 Priority Plans Completed Scotts Hall, Charles Town, Hampstead, Broadgate, Highgate, Mango Valley
19 Proposals Completed and Funding agencies include- EFJ, CDB, Chase, Digicel Foundation, Submitted MP’s, Food For the Poor, Jamaica Producers, USF, EFJ, Canada Fund
PIAN – PARISH INTER AGENCY NETWORK (SMART)
1 PIAN Strategic Planning SMART- St Mary Agencies Response Team Workshop held
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8 PIAN Meetings Held SMART
4 IAN Public Forums Hosted Highgate DAC, Annotto Bay DAC, Oracabessa DAC, Wag Water DAC
8 Social Service Fairs Held Castleton Earth Day, Oracabessa SSF, Hampstead Back to School, Islington Health and SSF Fair, Enfield Homecoming, Port Maria Night Out, Paggee Regatta, Charles Town SSF.
CRDP- COMMUNITY RESEARCH AND DATABASE PROGRAM
3 Profiles Completed Mango Valley, Sandside, Hampstead
11 Asset Map Completed and validated Broadgate, Jeffery Town, Hampstead, Islington, Mango Valley, Scotts Hall , Castleton , Amiel Town, Labyrinth, Devon Pen, Friendship Gap 23 Summary Profiles Completed SCD- SPORTS FOR COMMUNITTY DEVELOPMENT
14 Teams registered for T20 competition. 14 Teams 3 Winning teams implement projects Gayle/Woodpark, Highgate
10 Teams registered for T20 competition. 10 Teams
3 Winning teams implement projects Jacks River, Three Hills,
1 Community Netball Rally Implemented 10 Communities participated in Rally
INCENTIVE GRANTS PROGRAM
1 Parish Awards Ceremony Held St Mary Community Awards
18 Communities submitted Castleton CDC (2), Camberwell CDC, Annotto Bay CDC (2), applications for Grant Funding. Scotts Hall CDC, Hampstead CDC, Clonmel CDC, Gayle CDC, Bonny Gate CDC, Carron Hall CDC, Jeffery Town CDC, Mile Gully CDC, Oracabessa CDC, Enfield(2) CDC, Dover CDC, Wag Water DAC,
7 CSO’s received Funding through Hampstead CDC, Robins Bay CDC, Castleton CDC, Dover grant fund facilities CDC, Enfield CDC, Scotts Hall CDC, Annotto Bay CDC
PROGRAM SUPPORT REQUESTED FROM MUNICIPAL CORPORATION FOR 2017-2018 FINANCIAL YEAR
SDC is currently finalizing our work plan for 2017-2018 financial year and it will be presented at the next Municipal Corporation meeting
Transportation support for survey of 71 Disaster shelters in St Mary (April 2017) Continued partnership for Social Service Fairs and Community Consultations Partnership and Funding support for Port Maria Night Out (July 2017) Partnership and Funding support for St Mary Community Awards (Nov 2017) Partnership and Funding support for St Mary Community Development Committee conference (Nov 2017) Partnership and Funding support for St Mary CASFest (March 2017) Funding/technical support for Paving of SDC Parish Office Driveway Cape Clear
The Chairman encouraged Mr. Graham to keep up the good work and thanked him for his report.
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e) RADA
1) ABIS Farmer Registration a) Total Number of registered farmers – A total of ten thousand four hundred and eighty-six (10,486) farmers have been registered to date. b) Farmer Profile Updates - A total of one thousand two hundred and sixty-three (1263) farmer’s profiles were updated for the month.
2) Visits a) Agricultural Extension Officers Farm Visits – Over the period a total of four hundred and fifty-eight (485) farm visits were conducted during the reporting period, to cover Crop and Livestock production, Marketing and Land Husbandry practices. b) Home Visits (Home Economics)- Five (5) Home visits were conducted over the reporting period.
3) Training Sessions a) Farmer Trainings i) Crop Production Training Sessions- Formal – During the reporting period of April 2017 one (1) Crop Production training session was held.
ii) Crop Care Training Sessions- Formal – Two (2) Formal Crop Care Training Sessions were conducted for the month of April 2017.
iii) Facilitated Training Sessions – No facilitated training sessions were conducted during the reporting period.
iv) Livestock Production Training Sessions Formal – No formal Livestock Production Training Sessions were conducted over the reporting period.
v) Land Husbandry Training Sessions Formal – One (1) farmer training was conducted over the reporting period covering the topic: Land Preparation on Steep Slopes
vi) Marketing Training Sessions Formal – No formal Marketing Training sessions were conducted during the reporting period.
vii) Social services/Home Economics Training Sessions Formal- Three (3) training sessions were conducted over the reporting period.
viii) Farmers Trained Formal – A total of ninety-seven (97) farmers were trained formally for the month of March 2017
b) Staff Training Six (7) Staff Training sessions were conducted for the month of April in Agri. Business Management.
4) Workshop/Seminar/Meeting/Exhibition/Collaboration a) PMO Groups Formed/ Strengthened – No new PMO groups were formed during the reporting period. A total of eight (8) PMO/other groups were strengthened for the period.
b) Home Economics Groups Serviced – Four (4) groups were serviced during the reporting period; Windsor Castle Social Services/Home Economics Benevolent Society, Gifted Hands Community Group, Port Maria Home Economic Movement, and Rosend Community Group. 5) Projects/Programmes a) Fort George Honey Production Project - The Fort George Honey Production Project currently has forty-four (44) boxes which make a total of fifteen (15) colonies. Members visit the Apiary once
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weekly to monitor and do work activities. One (1) 750ml bottle of Honey was sold by the SS/HEO and $1,800.00 collected. b) Import Substitution- Irish Potato Programme - A total of 1242 bags of Irish Potatoes were received. Farmers who have planted are experiencing rotting of Irish Potato in most cases the germination rate ranges from 60%-70%. A total of 107.8 Irish potatoes was planted, 67.73 Irish potatoes reaped totaling 1490 tonnes. There was a total of 325 participants with 132 being women and youths. a) GOJ/Adaptation Fund Programme Water Harvesting Project: St. Mary Technical High- Water Harvesting project has been completed, with guttering installed and attached to the water tanks. The school is now able to harvest and utilize rain water in their agricultural production. b) GOJ/Adaptation Fund Programme Water Harvesting Project: Brimmer Vale High- Water harvesting project has been completed with guttering being installed and attached to the water tanks. c) GOJ/Adaptation Fund Programme Water Harvesting Project: Highgate Primary and Junior High – Project has been completed with guttering installed and attached to the water tanks. Cabbage and Tomato plots have been established and are growing in good condition. d) GOJ/Adaptation Fund Programme Water Harvesting Project: Jeffrey Town Water Harvesting Project- Two (2) Water tanks received for the Project. Entombment of spring to be done. Due to the fact that group suggested changes to the tank base the engineers from RADA and GOJ will have to have discussions with group. e) GOJ/Adaptation Fund Programme Water Harvesting Project: Enfield Water Harvesting Project- Entombment of spring to be done. Awaiting information from GOJ/AFP as to the start date. Due to consistent rain fall there is a delay with the work to be done. f) GOJ/Adaptation Fund Programme Farmer Field School Project- All sessions have been completed. Graduation exercise was postponed until May 10, 2017. g) Peace Corp Water Harvesting Programme: St. Mary High School- Water harvesting project has been completed with guttering installed and attached to tanks. h) Production Incentive Programme- Pringle’s Home Layer Project- Construction of the building is completed. Birds are laying 3 ½ flats per day. i) Agro Processing Incubator Unit - Building facility has been completed. Most of the equipment was received and awaits installation. Sessions have been conducted with prospective processors with the Competitiveness Company (TCC) on the April 20, 2017.
6) Demonstration Plots a) Crop Care Demonstration Plot – Four (4) Irish Potato Demo Plots were established in the following areas, namely: Nutsfield- plot was reaped and approximately 800 lbs were garnered; however, heavy rainfall caused an increase in rotting. Smilefield- The plot was harvested and a total of 1150 lbs were garnered. This is exclusive of spoilage. Decoy – Reaping to be done during this week; due to the continuous rainfall reaping had to be delayed. Robin’s Bay- The plot is currently being reaped. 7) Livestock Activities Beef Dairy Broiler Layer Pig Goat Rabbit Sheep Apiary 8) Mark 4,062 744 45,606 22,073 16,201 14,929 2,696 527 1051 eting Activities – Marketing linkages were made between sixteen (16) farmers and various buyers for supplying farm produce valuing $1,135,750.00 and a total volume of 10,300 kg.
9) Land Husbandry/ Soil Management Activities i) Agronomic Methods – 2 hectares of contour cultivation, 4 hectares of cover cropping, 5 hectares of inter cropping, 2 hectares of mulching/grass and 680 meters of vegetative barriers/pineapple. ii) Integration with Farming Systems – Twelve (12) hectares of conservation farming systems were done during the period. Discussions were facilitated about conservational farming systems such as: Managing agro-Ecosystems for improved and sustainable productivity, increased profits and
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food security while preserving and enhancing the resource base and the environment and continuous minimum mechanical disturbances, permanent organic soil cover. iii) Soil Fertility Management Methods- Five (5) hectares of correct usage of Inorganic Fertilizer was observed over the reporting period; farmers in the Albany, Rock Spring, Quebec and Marlborough areas were introduced to best practices in Inorganic Fertilizer Application. One (1) hectare of Animal Manure was utilized; farmers in Jacks River were sensitized on the construction of Compost Heaps. iv) Structural Methods –400 meters of Tree Trunk Barriers were done in the Tremolesworth and Flint River areas; logs were used to break the force of water flowing down hill and also to reduce soil erosion. 5 Individual Basins were done; farmers were trained in the construction and proper usage of individual basins, as well as proper lining of land for fruit tree production.
10) Social Services/Home Economics Activities One (21) Food Promotion Exhibition was mounted at the following event: St. Mary Agri Expo 2017
One (1) Inter-Agency Collaboration was done with the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), where the SS/HEO participated in the JCDC Culinary Festival as an Adjudicator.
11) Crop Production- Hectares planted decreased by1.49%, this was due to continuous rainfall throughout the parish. The major decline in crops planted was mainly seen in Irish Potato production, some of the farmers in the major Irish Potato belt are presently preparing and re-ploughing lands.
Hectares Hectares Hectares Hectares Hectares Hectares Hectares Hectares Planted Reaped Growing Planted Reaped Growing Loss Loss Crop Category Previous Previous Previous This This This This Previous Year & Year & Year & Month Month Month Month Year Month Month Month Legumes 5.8 6.4 5.2 7.5 21.6 33.4 0 0 Vegetables 63.7 61.7 55.9 61 169.7 187.6 0 0 Condiments 16.9 19.1 11.2 15.9 54.3 60.1 0 0 Fruits 13.7 16.1 9.4 10.6 139.6 135.2 0 0 Cereals 8.2 4.9 7.4 4.4 19.4 12.8 0 0 Plantains 26.7 24.4 20.4 25.3 264 255.6 0 0 Potatoes 7.6 9.5 56.8 40 54.1 41.4 0 0 Yams 13.9 14 13.7 12.9 88.3 88.5 0 0 Other Tubers 8.5 11.4 9.7 9.9 63.5 96.1 0 0 Total 165 167.5 189.7 187.5 874.5 910.7 0 0 12) Income Generation Activities a) Nursery Production- 900 Tomato seedlings are presently growing in the Nursery, even as we await the estimate for the cost of repairs. b) Tractor service – The tractor is operational and accessible by: application, payment of $3,500.00 per hour and transportation at $150.00 per km from the parish office to the location and return. No ploughing was done for the month of April due to the continuous rainfall. c) Tools & Equipment Rental- Items available for rental include: Mist Blower, Weed Wacker, Spray Pans and a Rotovator. d) Truck Rental- The Parish presently has two (2) trucks for rental, namely a Hyundai Box Truck and a Isuzu Store Body Truck.
Questions/Concerns
Nil
(f) JCDC
Nil
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f) JCF
Nil g) Youth Mayor/Youth Councillors
Nil
ANNOUNCEMENTS Nil
NOTICE OF MOTION FROM ANNOUNCEMENTS
Nil
UNFINISHED BUSINESS OF FORMER MEETINGS
Nil
MINUTES OF COMMITTEES FOR ACCEPTANCE
The following Minutes of Committees were presented for acceptance as under:
a) Human Resource Management b) Civic and Community Affairs c) Finance d) Physical Planning & Environment
On a motion by Councillor James, seconded by Councillor Hudson, the Minutes of Committees were accepted.
CORRESPONDENCE
The Acting Chief Executive Officer presented the following letters:
a) Letter dated April 19, 2017 from Local Government Services Commission as under:
“Please be informed that as of the 1st May, 2017, I will be reassigned duties in the Office of the Services Commissions for an extended period.
During my absence from the desk, Mrs Margaret Greene will act as Secretary to the Local Government Services Commission.”
The Committee noted.
b) Letter from the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development re Labour Day Theme for May 2017:
“Ms. Dahlia McDonald, Public Relations and Communications Officer wishes to inform you that, coming out of the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, which has Portfolio Responsibility for Labour Day Activities, has advised that the Theme for Labour Day, May 2017, is “Restore….Preserve…..Beautify.”
The National Project will be communicated as soon as we are in possession of such information.
Workers’ Week will run from May 17 – 23, culminating on Labour Day (Tuesday May 23), and is being observed within the framework of the Jamaica 55 Programme of Activities. The overall mission is to mobilize the nation to dedicate OUR energies to RESTORE, PRESERVE AND BEAUTIFY our National Landmarks and Monuments ... from our villages and town communities, through cities and parish capitals….leaving lasting LEGACIES for future generations, while we celebrate and embrace our history and our culture.” MINUTES OF GENERAL MEETING PREPARED BY: DEBBIE EVERING PRYCE
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The Committee noted.
c) Letter from PDC re Request for Assistance – St. Mary Parish Development Committee as under:
The St. Mary Parish Development Committee elected a new Executive on March 30, 2017.
At our first Executive Meeting on April 11, 2017, a Two Day Retreat is planned from May 13th – 14th at Tapioca Retreat. As reported at the last meeting of the Municipal Corporation, we are seeking assistance from the Corporation to assist with operational expenses in the amount of $60,000.00 from the St. Mary Municipal Corporation, $40,000 for Office Expenses and $20,000.00 for the Retreat.
Please note that the PDC has still not been provided with any funding from the Ministry, but we are executing the Paggee Fishermen’s Regatta 2017 as the first of many fund raising events.
The Chairman said he was aware of a request for Twenty Thousand Dollars towards the Retreat and the Corporation was not in position the assist with office expenses as was requested, he asked that the request for the twenty Thousand Dollars be tabled a the next sitting of the Finance Committee for approval.
NEW BUSINESS
Nil
PETITION
Nil
RESOLUTIONS FROM CORPORATIONS
Nil
RESOLUTION - FINAL APPROVAL
Nil
CERTIFICATION OF COMPLETION
The Acting Director of Planning presented Certification of Completion for approval as under:
1)
IN THE MATTER of the subdivision of Lands part of SPRING VALLEY
SAINT MARY
IN THE MATTER of the Statutory Declarations Act
I, GLENFORD RICKETTS do solemnly and sincerely declare as follows:-
That I reside and have my true place of abode and postal address at Galina in the parish of St. Mary and I am the Deputy Chief Engineering Officer of the St. Mary Municipal Corporation (Formerly St. Mary Parish Council) and am duly authorized to depone to this Statutory Declaration on behalf of the St. Mary Municipal Corporation.
That the subdivision of lands part of Spring Valley in the parish of Saint Mary registered at Volume 1206 Folio 794 in the name Oral Trowers has been satisfactorily completed in
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accordance with the conditions of approval issued on February 24, 2014.
That conditions No. 10 namely, the setting out of road alignment and lot boundaries has been checked on ground by the Local Planning Authority (St. Mary Municipal Corporation) and all pre- checked plans (PE: 338922) have been adjusted accordingly, in respect of Lots 1, 4 and 5.
AND I MAKE this solemn declaration conscientiously believing same to be true and by virtue of the Statutory Declaration Act.
On a motion by Councillor James, seconded by Councillor Hudson, the Corporation approved.
NOTICE OF MOTION
1. Notice is hereby given by Councillor James that a resolution to rename the Brimmer Vale High School to Wycliffe Martin High School will be tabled at the next sitting of General Meeting scheduled for Thursday, June 8, 2017.
2. Notice is hereby given of resolution to increase/implement new rates, to be tabled at the next sitting of General Meeting scheduled for June 8, 2017.
Update of previous Questions
Handing-over Ceremony – Marking Stone Beach
The Chairman informed that as far as he was aware, the Handing-over Ceremony was not held. He asked whether or not any communication was made with the Corporation to indicate when the ceremony would be held.
The Acting Chief Executive Officer said no communication to that effect was received.
The Chairman enquired whether or not the Divestment Committee had met regarding the proposals for the Marking Stone Beach.
The Chairman of the Divestment Committee, Councillor Lee responded that the meeting was not held; that the Committee was awaiting the Valuation Report from the National Land Agency. She added that the members needed to know the value of the property before meeting with the applicants.
The Chairman suggested that the Acting Chief Executive Officer make contact with the National Land Agency with regards to the Valuation Report. He added that approval was granted for the Corporation to put a security system in place however, since the handing over did not take place, that system would be put on hold since the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) was still responsible for the facility.
ACTION: ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Annotto Bay Cemetery
The Chairman said he had discussions with the Chief Engineering Officer on the matter and pointed out that the Corporation should be bushing and then spaying its cemeteries to keep the grass at an acceptable level. He said it was a practice for persons to be employed to clean the facilities at a high cost; that there were two Councillors with expertise in the type of chemicals to use and the cost for carrying out such works. He said that officers would just ask someone how much they would charge and the person may say Forty Thousand Dollars and a contract would be prepared for that amount to spray the facility. He said Councillor Freeman was one of those Councillors who had knowledge; that at a previous meeting he had given the going rate of One Thousand Five Hundred Dollars per drum; that payment would be made for someone to assist the Cemetery Keeper which would be a lot cheaper for the Corporation. He said he was at the Richmond Cemetery the day before the meeting and was told by the Cemetery Keeper that he had gone to the
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Corporation to get chemicals for spraying but was told there was none available. He said he would continue bushing until the chemical became available.
Councillor Freeman informed that the Annotto Bay Cemetery was bushed but needed spraying. He added that a tractor was used to clear the front section of the facility; that the rear of the facility should also be cleared for additional space.
The Chairman said that persons would not go to the rear of the facility as long as there was available space at the front.
Councillor Freeman said he had suggested that the Corporation build the vaults and sell them.
The Chairman said the suggestion was tabled at the Infrastructure and Traffic Management Committee for discussion.
Robert Schuman Round-A-Bout
The Chairman informed that he was provided with the information for the gentleman at St. Mary Banana however, he had not made contact. He said he would get it done as soon as possible.
Councillor Freeman informed that the round-a-bout currently needed cleaning.
Jackson Primary
The Chairman informed that he had discussions with the Minister regarding the closure of the Jackson Primary School due to the condition of the road; that he said he was unable to honour the request at that time.
Hamilton Mountain Basic School Project
Councillor Kidd had requested information regarding the availability of funds to complete the project.
The Acting Chief Executive Officer said he was carry out an investigation into the matter.
ACTION: ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
QUESTIONS
Councillor Freeman asked, “Is the Corporation aware that due to the recent torrential rains, the infrastructure of roadways in the Belfield Division have deteriorated severely?” Special mention was made of the Mahoe and Claremont Housing Scheme roads.
The Chief Engineering Officer has made a note and will carry out the necessary investigations.
Councillor Sewell asked, “Is the Corporation aware that since the heavy rains, a drain in the Arcadia Housing Scheme has overflowed and is compromising the Mango Valley roadway?”
The Chief Engineering Officer has made a note and will carry out the necessary investigations.
Councillor Bryan asked, “Is the Corporation aware that the road leading from Fort George to Pleasant Hill has broken away due to the recent rainfall?”
The Chief Engineering Officer was asked to carry out an investigation.
ACTION: CHIEF ENGINEERING OFFICER
Councillor Bryan asked, “Is the Corporation aware that the Bus Park in Annotto Bay is in dire need of repair?” He said the users of the Bus Park were planning to demonstrate if nothing was done.
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The Chairman said he had requested an estimate from Assistant Superintendent Fisher some time ago; that he was informed that said estimate was prepared however he had not received same. He asked the Chief Engineering Officer to deal with that matter.
ACTION: CHIEF ENGINEERING OFFICER
Councillor Bryan asked, “Is the Corporation aware that there is no photograph of the Minister of Local Government and Community Development in the Corporation’s Meeting Room?”
The Chairman said he spoke with the Minister about the photograph and was told that he had taken some photographs and the Corporation would receive same. He asked the Chief Executive Officer to follow up with the Permanent Secretary in that regard.
ACTION: ACTING CHIEF EXCEUTIVE OFFICER
Councillor Bryan asked, “Is the Corporation further aware that the Clerk at the Annotto Bay Bus Park, who was found to be suspicious of not handing over the Corporation’s documents and funds on time, is employed to the Corporation?”
The Chairman enquired whether or not a decision was taken at the Human Resources Management Committee for the services of the Clerk at the Annotto Bay Bus Park to be terminated.
Councillor Bryan responded in the affirmative.
The Chairman said he would like to hear from the Director of Administration the reason the Clerk was not terminated.
The Director of Administration responded that she informed the Committee that an investigation was done however, all she had was a memorandum from the Chief Financial Officer which was read at the meeting; that she told the Committee that a meeting should be held with Miss Gibbs, as she could not be terminated in that manner, as natural justice was not carried out. She said it was stated at the meeting that a memorandum should be written to the Chief Executive Officer to inform her of what was said at the meeting and that Municipal Police Officers should be placed at the Bus Park. She said she attended a course shortly after however, the memorandum was done and sent to the Chief Executive Officer; that upon her return to work on Monday (of said week) she spoke with the Acting Chief Executive Officer on the matter and subsequently a meeting was planned for the Chief Financial Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Miss Gibbs and herself to attend. The Chairman reiterated the question, whether or not the Committee took a decision that Miss Gibbs’ services should be terminated.
The Director of Administration responded, “No Sir”.
The Chairman said he would like to hear from the members of that Committee, whether or not a decision was taken for Miss Gibbs’ services to be terminated.
Councillors Bryan, Hudson and Kidd, Chairman of the Human Resources Management Committee responded that a decision was taken by the Committee that Miss Gibbs’ services be terminated.
The Chairman said he did not understand how three members stated that a decision was taken and the Director of Administration said one was not taken. He added that Miss Gibbs was on Contract and that a clause in the Contract stated that “your services may be terminated in lieu of two weeks’ notice or one months’ notice” depending on the individual’s employment status. He said the Committee made a decision and it should therefore be carried out.
He said the Chief Executive Officer should write a letter to the Director of Administration about the matter.
ACTION: ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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Councillor Hudson asked, “Is the Corporation aware that there are open graves in the Whitehall Cemetery and flies are coming out of them?” She said the graves were not properly constructed and the situation worsened due to the recent rainfall.
The Chief Engineering Officer was asked to deal with the matter urgently.
ACTION: CHIEF ENGINEERING OFFICER
Councillor Smiley asked, “Is the Corporation aware that a section to the rear of the Civic Centre building where Councillors park, needs repair?” He explained that the dirt area has eroded overtime therefore making it difficult for the vehicles to drive on the paved area without damaging their tyres. He added that a National Water Commission worker recently damaged his tyres at said location.
The Chairman asked that the matter be dealt with.
ACTION: CHIEF ENGINEERING OFFICER
Councillor Kidd asked, “Is the Corporation aware that the roadway in the Berry community (off Airy Hill) is in a deplorable condition?”
Councillor Kidd asked, “Is the Corporation further aware that the Coleraine roadway leading from the intersection of the Oracabessa High School heading to Canoe Pond, is in a deplorable condition?”
Councillor Kidd asked, “Is the Corporation further aware that the citizens in the Pond Side area of Hamilton Mountain have not received any water supply for the past three weeks?”
The Chairman asked that the matter be tabled at the Infrastructure and Traffic Management Committee since representatives from the National Water Commission usually attended that meeting and the NWC is responsible for supplying water to that area.
Councillor Hutchinson asked, “Is the Corporation aware that most of the roadways in the Carron Hall Division have been seriously scoured due to the recent heavy rains?” She added that Goodman Street was totally impassable and she had requested an estimate to be forwarded to the Chairman and a copy given to her however, she was not sure whether or not same was prepared and forwarded. She said she also requested that a tour of the Division be done however, that too was not done and she hoped that since there was a new Chief Engineering Officer in place, that could be arranged in short order.
The Chairman said he has not received such estimate.
Councillor Hutchinson asked, “Is the Corporation further aware that the Carron Hall Division does not have an assigned Works Overseer and that Assistant Superintendent Fisher was only assisting in the Division?” She said the situation has negatively impacted the Division as one set of the Length Men have not been paid since March 2017 and another set was now due for payment.
The Chief Engineering officer has made note of the situation and the request.
ACTION: CHIEF ENGINEERING OFFICER
Councillor James asked, “Is the Corporation aware that the quality of work carried out in St. Andrew was superior to the work carried out on the corridor of road in St. Mary?” He added that the difference is seen and felt as soon as there was a cross over into St. Andrew.
The Chairman said the matter was to be raised with the National Works Agency when they attended the next sitting of the Infrastructure and Traffic Management Committee.
Councillor Dixon asked, “Is the Corporation aware that the Mahoe Road which borders Islington and Belfield Division is in a deplorable condition and needs repair?”
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The Chairman said he received a video and what he saw was water running in the middle of the roadway.
Councillor Freeman suggested that a site visit be done in the area to ascertain the problem.
ACTION: CHIEF ENGINEERING OFFICER
Councillor Dixon asked, “Is the Corporation aware that the roadway at the detour section of Castle Garden needs repair?” He added that a section of the road has deteriorated and was causing serious challenges to motorists. He said that motorists drive into the path of each other from the opposite sides; that if it was not addressed, it could cause serious accidents.
The Chairman asked that the matter be mentioned at the Infrastructure and Traffic Management Committee for discussion.
ADJOURNMENT
The Chairman thanked everyone for attending the meeting.
There being no other matter for discussion, the General Meeting was adjourned on a motion by Councillor Kidd, seconded by Councillor Freeman at approximately 12: 22 p.m.
C O N F I R M E D
…………………………………… ………………………………… CHAIRMAN CLERK TO COMMITTEE ST. MARY MUNICIPAL CORPORATION ST. MARY MUNICIPAL CORPORATION
DATE…………………………… DATE……………………………
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