PORT MARIA, St Mary – Seventeen-year-old Annotto Bay High School student Kimmarly Cobran has been elected junior mayor within the St Mary Municipal Corporation for 2023-2024, breaking St Mary High’s three-year hold on the title.

The surprised and elated sixth former, who was chosen to lead 11 other junior councillors from various divisions, said he’s honoured to work with his peers who are all bright and optimistic.

“I do hope my position can make an impact in my community of Tinsberry, Enfield. I want my leadership to focus on water in that community,” said Cobran, who represents the Annotto Bay Division.

He has set his sights on a career in the field of information technology, but smiled when asked if he had any long-term interest in politics.

“When I reach that crossroads I will think about it,” he told the Jamaica Observer.

During the fiercely contested competition, Cobran’s presentation began with the use of dub poetry to share his views on local government. Later in his presentation he highlighted issues that need to be addressed within his community.

The other representatives that make up the junior council are Deputy Mayor Kimani Bennett, Hampstead Division; Shantae Porteous, Carron Hall; Davia Parson, Richmond; Tiana Cameron, Oracabessa; Briana King, Port Maria; Teronana Maitland, Boscobel; Jordan Burrell, Retreat; Deandre Livermore, Highgate; and Sydena Ricketts, Islington Division.

Local government month is typically celebrated in November each year. On October 26 the St Mary Municipal Corporation handed over a baton to their counterparts in Portland during an all-island run to kick-start this year’s activities. The theme is ‘Local Government: Creating a legacy of improved social services’.