THE entertainment sector is among those being rewarded with discounts this holiday season as the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) seeks to ease the burden on businesses recovering from Hurricane Melissa.

Mayor of Kingston, Councillor Andrew Swaby, said the sector will see a 20 per cent discount on certain fees associated with the hosting of events — that is, fees related to structures erected or set up at entertainment events over the period December 2025 to January 2026.

“This is our way of offering support at this challenging time. We hope this gives the entertainment industry some breathing room as they support the recovery process while sustaining themselves. We also encourage them to continue supporting the relief efforts,” Swaby, the People’s National Party councillor for the Vineyard Town Division, said.

He said he has noticed the trickle-down negative effect on those affected by the Category 5 hurricane, which hit Jamaica in late October.

“Entertainment and nightlife plays a major role in our money moving from hand to hand in our economy. When an event is held, many people, including promoters, selectors, security teams, bar operators, vendors and taxi operators all benefit. When the sector slows down it is not just the big players who lose income. It is also the small man who depends on the weekend hustle,” Swaby said at Tuesday’s monthly meeting of the KSAMC.

Meanwhile, in a bid to improve the KSAMC’s revenue stream, Swaby said he has met with advertising companies that have been indebted to the corporation for up to seven years. He explained that a specific arrangement was reached, that if they settle their arrears by November 30 they will also benefit from a 20 per cent discount.

“These measures reflect our relentless effort to maintain an orderly, safe and visually balanced city while ensuring that the KSAMC has the resources it needs to serve the residents of Kingston and St Andrew. We encourage all operators to take advantage of this temporary signage concession and continue to work with us to support compliance, revenue growth, and the overall well-being of our municipality,” the mayor said.

He said the KSAMC recognises that the hurricane has had a significant impact on many businesses across the municipality, with operators facing interruptions, unexpected repairs, and unplanned expenses, including those resulting from assisting people impacted by the hurricane.

“This has affected the ability to meet certain regulatory obligations including payment of fees for signage,” Swaby said. “In response to these challenges and giving businesses a fair opportunity to regularise, the KSAMC is offering a one-time limited discount on long outstanding fees for signage. This initiative provides practical reset, allows businesses to clear arrears, and bring their signs to compliance. Many businesses have been displaying signs for years without paying the required fees under the Advertisement Regulations Act and the Town and Country Planning regulations 1978.

“As the local planning authority, the KSAMC has the legal right to administer, collect, and where appropriate, offer structured concessions and discounts. The discount programme will follow a consistent tiered structure and will run from January to March 2026. After March 31, 2026, all accounts will revert to full payment and enforcement activities will proceed in accordance with applicable laws,” Swaby explained.

Swaby also thanked entertainers for their support during the hurricane recovery efforts, stating that they demonstrated remarkable generosity and care.

“I must use this opportunity to thank and acknowledge the several stakeholders and individuals within the entertainment sector…many stepped forward on their own accord, using their personal resources, activating their networks, organising support and sending much-needed supplies to affected communities,” Swaby said.

“We recognise and appreciate all, both locally and internationally, who have played a really good role in helping our people recover and for that we are sincerely grateful.”