Mayor Outlines Vision for Montego Bay’s Transition to a Sustainable City

Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Richard Vernon, has underscored the need for public order and best practices to elevate the municipality into a sustainable city worthy of its status as Jamaica’s tourism capital.

Speaking during a city hall meeting at the Montego Bay Cultural Centre on February 6, Councillor Vernon emphasised that sustainable urban development is essential for the city to thrive as a regional leader in tourism and environmental and business stewardship.

“A sustainable city is not merely a concept, but an actionable framework designed to address social, environmental and economic challenges through strategic urban planning and effective city management,” he stated.

The Mayor’s comments came against the background of heightening concerns by citizens about the state of public order and various issues plaguing Montego Bay.

One of the most pressing challenges highlighted by Councillor Vernon was the prevalence of stray animals roaming neighborhoods, noting that these pose safety risks and contribute to environmental degradation.

The Mayor also highlighted unregulated farming practices emerging in residential areas, pointing out that these are problematic and unsustainable.

“These activities not only disrupt the [aesthetic appeal] of our neighborhoods, but also compromise public health and safety,” he maintained.

Consequently, Councillor Vernon proposed that persons so engaged be mandated to apply for permits, and relocate their operations to designated city council-approved agricultural zones.

The Mayor also addressed the issue of transportation and congestion, noting that as Montego Bay’s growth as a tourism and business hub continues, the influx of visitors and residents has exacerbated traffic issues, resulting in significant delays on the roads and safety concerns.

While acknowledging the expected reprieve from the Montego Bay Perimeter Road’s construction, Councillor Vernon urged collaboration among residents, businesses and government agencies to identify solutions that would alleviate congestion and improve mobility.

Regarding waste disposal, the Mayor pointed out that improper waste management practices not only mar the city’s beauty, but also pose serious environmental hazards.

“We need to establish clear guidelines for waste disposal and recycling, and it is imperative that all stakeholders are on board with these initiatives,” he urged.

Councillor Vernon said achieving a sustainable Montego Bay will require “complete buy-in” from the community, including residents, businesses and other stakeholders.

He further underscored the importance of a collaborative approach to urban development, and urged everyone to participate actively in discussions and planning efforts aimed at fostering a sustainable future.

“We have the potential to make Montego Bay a model hub for sustainable growth in the Caribbean. But to do this, we must prioritise order and adherence to regulations that are data-driven, ensuring that our decisions are informed by evidence and best practices,” Councillor Vernon stated.

His address resonated with many in attendance, who, in the segment reserved for questions and answers, expressed their support for his vision.

Local business leaders and community representatives acknowledged the need for better regulation and planning, stating that a more sustainable Montego Bay would not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also attract more tourists, ultimately benefitting the local economy.

Mayor Vernon reiterated his commitment to working closely with the community to develop actionable strategies aligned with the sustainability goals.

He encouraged the residents to be proactive in voicing their concerns and suggestions, declaring that “the future of Montego Bay lies in our hands.”