PORTLAND, Jamaica —Vice Chairman of the Portland Municipal Corporation Rohan Vassell has welcomed the redevelopment of Da Villa Juanita in Hector’s River, describing the investment as an important development that is expected to contribute to the social and economic growth of the community and wider Portland.

Vassell, who was speaking at Saturday’s media launch of the property, said the development had generated excitement and optimism among residents and stakeholders in the area.

“Da Villa Juanita is an important development for Hector’s River and surrounding areas, and I know I speak not only for myself but for the people of this area. We are all excited and optimistic about what this has to offer,” Vassell said.

He noted that the project would go beyond improving the aesthetics of the community, arguing that it would play a more significant role in advancing the social and economic development of the area.

“This project, however, will not only serve as an enhancement of the aesthetics of the area but will, more importantly, enhance the social and economic development of the entire community,” he said.

Vassell said the investment also represented a vote of confidence in Jamaica’s economic climate and demonstrated commitment to Portland.

“This investment is an expression of confidence in the current economic climate of the country and an expression of support and loyalty to not only this area but also the wider Portland,” he said.

He added that he was personally proud of the development and its potential impact on Hector’s River.

According to Vassell, Mayor of Port Antonio Councillor Paul Thompson has also expressed optimism about the project, saying he believes it holds significant promise for the community and its residents.

Vassell offered high commendation to proprietor Laeron Leroy Lewis and his team for undertaking the venture, saying the investment demonstrated that Portland remains a place where people can invest and create opportunities.

“In embarking on this venture, Mr Lewis and his team have shown the world that Portland is a place where people can invest, while at the same time setting an example for others to follow,” Vassell said.

He said the Portland Municipal Corporation welcomes investments of this nature and remains committed to providing the necessary services to facilitate the success of developments within the parish.

“The Portland Municipal Corporation welcomes investments like this to our communities and is fully committed and dedicated to providing the service required to enable and foster the success of projects like these,” said Vassell.

According to him, the investment comes at an important time for Hector’s River, where increased economic activity could provide new opportunities for residents.

“This investment, ladies and gentlemen, could not come at a better time for us here in Hector’s River,” he stressed.

Vassell said he was convinced that the business would grow and make a meaningful contribution to the parish.

“I am convinced that the business will not only grow exponentially but will also contribute significantly to the upliftment of the people of the parish. We all are very grateful for having such an asset here in our community,” he said.

The 19-room Da Villa Juanita, which has been refurbished at a cost of US$1million, is back on the tourism market, following a prolonged closure triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The upgraded facility has been welcomed by local authorities as an example of private-sector investment that can contribute to community development while creating opportunities for the people of Portland.

Portland native Carlene ‘Peggy’ Campbell in commending the owners of the property for the investment in the parish, pledged her support in the marketing of the facility.

“It’s very heartwarming to see this gem that is in the work in our beautiful parish. I pledged to work with the proprietor to market this lovely place to ensure its growth and success,” said Campbell, a returning resident.

“I am really going to push this place… I am very committed,” she added.

David Geddes, another Portland native, also commended the proprietor for the investment in the parish.

“I am here to pay tribute to the person who had the foresight to build this entity, the foresight to spend over US$1 million to refurbish the entity here in Portland… so that the business does better, so that the parish does better,” said Geddes.

Lewis told Observer Online that he is encouraged by level of forward bookings at the property as he urged the general public to capitalise on the 15 to 20 per cent discounted rates being offered on rooms until the end of October 2026.

He added that plans are afoot to add two more rooms at the property and a swimming pool.

The property is within travelling distance of attractions including Reach Falls and Bath Fountain.

It also has access to the Scott’s River Natural Mineral Springs, with the spring source located on the estate.

The property is also looking to host weddings, conventions, entertainment and cultural activities.