It has always been clear that good governance in local government goes beyond simply overseeing municipal operations. At its core, good governance requires that residents’ voices are not only heard but respected, while creating platforms that enable their active participation.

This understanding has remained firmly intact since I assumed the chairmanship of the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC), and my resolve in this regard has only strengthened. For the leadership of the KSAMC, the city’s success requires meaningful dialogue with its residents, a commitment to law and order, and the diligent enforcement of regulations that protect both the environment and the quality of life in our communities.

Richmond Park Concerns

It is against this backdrop that we take seriously the concerns that prompted a demonstration by the residents of Richmond Park in St Andrew on July 29, 2024. Five days earlier, on July 24, a letter of complaint from the Richmond Park Community Development Committee (RPCDC) was brought to my attention. While the letter primarily objected to the proposed construction of a car dealership at 11 Westlake Avenue, it also highlighted broader concerns related to development within the Richmond Park area.

Given the gravity of the concerns outlined, I immediately requested a report from our technical officers regarding the issues raised. Additionally, the RPCDC representative who informed the KSAMC about the letter’s delivery to our offices was assured that the issue was being treated as urgent, and the KSAMC would act swiftly and decisively to resolve the situation.

Preliminary investigations into the alleged construction revealed that no application for development was submitted to the KSAMC for that address. I have requested a more thorough investigation into the matter. Meanwhile, a stop notice ordering an immediate cease and desist on all building work was served at the location on July 31, 2024.

We understand that these issues are part of broader concerns held by residents and stakeholders regarding planning and building approvals in disputed areas. To address these, the KSAMC has been actively engaging with stakeholders through meetings to discuss their specific and collective concerns. Additionally, we are in ongoing discussions with our agency partners to find equitable solutions that address the residents’ issues while safeguarding the integrity of the development process.

Wider Citizen Consultations

Ideally, local government should be a vibrant, accessible, and responsive institution that genuinely reflects the will and needs of the communities it serves. It should be characterised by regular and meaningful interactions between representatives and residents.

Over the past five months, we have dedicated ourselves to engaging in consultations with residents, businesses, and other stakeholder groups. The KSAMC has held meetings with the Havendale/Meadowbrook Citizens Association, Citizen’s Rights to the City (CRC), Irish Town Action Group, and the executive of the Duhaney Park Community Development Committee (CDC).

Additionally, a consultative meeting with the residents of Duhaney Park is scheduled to take place. A previously planned meeting with the Hope Pastures Citizens Association had to be postponed due to the passage of Hurricane Beryl but is now rescheduled to take place later this month.

Furthermore, the KSAMC is in the process of establishing an advisory committee to support its vision of participatory governance. This initiative aligns with the KSAMC’s commitment to transparency and accountability, in accordance with our mandate. As we work towards these goals, we assure the public that we are diligently addressing their concerns. We continue to invite stakeholders to collaborate with us in finding effective solutions. In particular, residents are invited to attend the meetings of the building and planning committees, which are open to the public.

Building and Planning Process

In recent times, prior to the change of Administration, the KSAMC found itself entangled in a series of controversies regarding its management of building and planning issues within the municipality. The shortcomings of its operations, particularly in cases in which building approvals have been questioned or overturned by court decisions, have cast a long shadow over the municipality, stoking public criticism.

The root of these issues lies in the inefficiencies of the current operational systems and structures within the KSAMC which have proven inadequate in achieving their intended goals. The existing framework for managing building and planning processes is failing, as evidenced by recurring legal challenges and growing public dissatisfaction.

The KSAMC, tasked with the crucial responsibility of regulating construction and enforcing relevant laws, must maintain a delicate balance between fostering development and ensuring the peaceful enjoyment of the built environment by all residents.

To address these problems and restore trust in the KSAMC, a series of necessary reforms are being pursued by my Administration. The KSAMC will commit to transparency by publicly posting all approvals, refusals, deferrals, cease work orders, enforcement notices, and court cases on its website. This will provide residents with easy access to crucial information and demonstrate the corporation’s dedication to accountability.

Moreover, the KSAMC will ensure that all complaints are logged, assessed, and promptly brought to the attention of the Building and Town Planning Committee. It is imperative that communication is responded to in a timely manner and all building breaches are reported, with details of the actions taken and scheduled follow-ups clearly outlined. Subsequent follow-up reports will also be presented to the committee to ensure continuous monitoring and resolution of issues.

In addition to these procedural changes, the KSAMC will address the need for qualified and adequate staffing. The current workforce must be strengthened to perform its duties efficiently and effectively. Revamping the internship programme in collaboration with key educational institutions is a step in the right direction, as it would provide mutual benefits for both the KSAMC and these organisations.

Furthermore, the KSAMC will seek the assistance of the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development to engage with relevant professional bodies to develop a certification programme. This programme, to be renewed every two years, will ensure that all personnel involved in building and planning are equipped with up-to-date knowledge and skills.

To enhance accountability and ensure proper checks and balances, the duties of building officers and enforcers should be separated. This would prevent conflicts of interest and promote a more rigorous inspection process. The Administration is working towards assigning building officers to assess applications and focus on enforcement activities. Additionally, the code of conduct governing the building inspectorate must be updated and strictly enforced, ensuring that all personnel adhere to the highest standards of professionalism.

Frankly, the implementation of these measures is not just about rectifying past mistakes, it is also about charting a new course for the KSAMC. By adopting a more transparent, efficient, and professional approach, the KSAMC will fulfil its role as a guardian of Kingston and St Andrew’s urban development.

Andrew Swaby is the mayor of Kingston.