KINGSTON, Jamaica— The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) said it will take further action against vendors at the Constant Spring Arcade who have not complied with attaining their own Jamaica Public Service (JPS) meter.

Mayor of Kingston Andrew Swaby, in his address to the councillors during the first KSAMC monthly meeting for the year, stated that the corporation provides power to the Constant Spring Arcade however, vendors have installed high powered appliances and illegal electrical connections, which inflates the electricity bill of the KSAMC. The mayor added that this action by the vendors have also increased the risk of fires.

“The KSAMC provided one outlet and one light bulb socket per shop and lighting for the common area. However, many operators have exceeded this capacity by installing high-consumption appliances, including refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and sewing machines,” Swaby said.

“This has not only inflated our electricity bills but also created fire hazards, compounded by evidence of unauthorised electrical connections,” he added.

The mayor informed that preliminary investigations indicate that last December’s fire at the Constant Spring arcade was caused by an electrical short circuit. The fire had destroyed two shops, however there were no reports of injuries.

READ: WATCH: Two shops completely destroyed in Constant Spring Arcade fire

Mayor Swaby said considering these actions, the KSAMC cannot allow the vendors to remain on its JPS meter.

He stated that the fees collected from for shops, stalls, or space rentals fall significantly short of covering the expenses incurred by the corporation for waste disposal, maintenance, water, electricity, and insurance.

“In May 2024, I led consultations with vendors of the arcade, clearly outlining the urgent need for each operator to secure their own JPS meters. This discussion…8 attended by JPS officials, were constructive, with vendors committing to comply. Another meeting was held in September which included the JCF, however, despite written reminders and notices, adherence has been inadequate,” Swaby said.

“The KSAMC can no longer allow vendors to remain on its meter. We have written to them giving them time to enter into contracts with the Jamaica Public Service, this time has expired.  We will now pursue further actions against those who are non-compliant,” he added.