ST JAMES, Jamaica — Amid renewed calls for a dedicated tourism-supported fund to revitalise Montego Bay, Mayor Richard Vernon has declared that the resort city is ready to lead a national push for integrated, inclusive development, with tourism serving as the vital link connecting agriculture, education, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship.

Speaking at the reception ceremony of the Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX) at the Montego Bay Reggae Night at Harmony Beach Park on Sunday night, Mayor Vernon argued that the trade show “arrives at a critical juncture”.

“Just days ago, we convened the Agri-Business Forum, where we explored food security, climate resilience and rural revitalisation. That dialogue underscored a truth we know all too well and one we are now tasked to carry forward: Jamaica’s development must be integrated, inclusive and innovative. Tourism cannot stand apart from agriculture, nor from education, infrastructure or environmental stewardship. It must be the connective tissue that binds sectors, communities and aspirations,” Vernon, who is also chairman of the St James Municipal Corporation, said.

“Montego Bay, as the only resort city in Jamaica, is ready to lead that charge,” he added.

However, he was quick to point out that Montego Bay’s strong commitment to tourism must be matched by investments in urban renewal, safety, security, and the local economy. He called for a dedicated tourism-supported fund to revitalise the city.

“Accounting for over 70 per cent of air transport in the country and accommodating over 30 per cent of our visitors, Montego Bay is the leading earner in the sector. Therefore, to yield higher returns, much more inputs are needed in our city,” Vernon said.

He appealed to partners in the diaspora, the private sector and international developers to invest in Montego Bay, calling it the Caribbean’s premier opportunity, and encouraged youth to take leadership roles in the growing hospitality sector.

“We remind you that this industry is not owned by a few— it is shaped by all of us. Get involved,” the Montego Bay mayor urged.

— Horace Hines