FOLLOWING the recent publication of a story by the Jamaica Observer, which outlined that financial institutions owe the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) more than $12 million for signs, Mayor of Kingston Andrew Swaby has said that some of them have come forward to pay up.

Swaby, councillor for the Vineyard Town Division (People’s National Party), on Tuesday expressed delight that the article triggered some action, but explained that there was still some concern as numerous other entities owe the KSAMC millions.

“Before [the article], institutions were giving us the runaround. While I am encouraged that some have responded and have begun to settle their debt, there are still others who have either ignored our letters or failed to respond altogether,” Swaby said on Tuesday during the KSAMC’s regular monthly meeting.

“Councillors, let it be known that I am prepared to name these institutions publicly along with the amount they owe. We cannot continue to serve the people of Kingston and St Andrew properly, especially when large institutions who know their obligations refuse to pay.

“Councillors, you will recall that the CEO recently spoke about several financial institutions that owe the KSAMC money for signage and branding at their head offices, branches, ATMs [automated teller machines] and other locations. Following this interview, a few weeks ago, a newspaper article was published to highlight the matter. Some of these outstanding monies date back to as far back as seven years ago, totalling nearly $12 million dollars.

“The interview seemed to have prompted some institutions to reach out to us. I believe this is likely due to the CEO declaring that we are prepared to publicly name these institutions,” added Swaby.

In March, documents seen by the Jamaica Observer showed that as at February 2025 one financial institution owed the KSAMC more than $5 million, while another owed the corporation close to $3.5 million. Three other financial institutions had outstanding payments totalling more than $3.5 million. There were two other financial institutions on the list seen by the Observer, but those were listed as being up to date with their payments.

According to Swaby, the KSAMC has already compiled another list of delinquents and will be going after insurance companies and other entities next.

“All business enterprises operating within our jurisdiction that have a financial obligation to the KSAMC are being looked at. This kind of behaviour cannot continue. It is unfair to the citizens we serve and it is unacceptable that some of the same institutions that owe us money are often the loudest critics of the KSAMC.

“We must send a clear message that everyone must pay their fair share. I have tasked the CEO to look into increasing the public awareness of their financial obligation to the KSAMC. We want them to understand the importance of fulfilling these obligations in a timely manner. This is critical for maintaining the integrity of our financial operations and ensuring the continued development of our city,” declared Swaby.