Kingston Cracks Down on Commercial Waste: Major Changes Coming
Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby outlines efforts to combat poor commercial garbage disposal practices, urging businesses to adhere to waste management regulations.
Kingston’s commercial sector will undergo significant changes as Mayor Andrew Swaby revealed
plans to tackle improper waste disposal practices across the city. In a recent address at the Kingston
and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) meeting, held at the Marcus Garvey Council Chamber, the
The mayor expressed concern over current garbage management, calling for more responsible disposal from
business operators.
Commercial Garbage Disposal Overhaul Underway
Mayor Swaby announced that KSAMC will be making it mandatory for businesses to engage reputable
waste management companies to handle their commercial garbage. He stressed that while the corporation
fully supports the contributions of businesses to the economy, it will not tolerate the ongoing poor
disposal practices.
“For too long, informal arrangements such as handcart men dumping garbage on vacant lots, sidewalks,
and public spaces have plagued our city. This is unacceptable, and we are committed to enforcing proper
disposal methods,” said Mayor Swaby.
KSAMC’s Compliance and Enforcement Drive
During the summer, KSAMC spearheaded a compliance and enforcement drive in the downtown business district. The initiative involved partnerships with key agencies, including Tax Administration Jamaica, the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), the Public Health Department, the Jamaica Fire Brigade, and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).
This joint effort was designed to ensure that businesses take full responsibility for the disposal of their garbage. The Mayor highlighted that the KSAMC team carried out inspections to verify if commercial operators had agreements with reputable waste disposal providers.
The revenue team checked compliance and followed up with businesses, issuing warnings and taking necessary enforcement actions against violators. Mayor Swaby further explained that these efforts are critical in maintaining a clean and healthy urban environment.
Targeting Chinese-Owned Businesses
Acknowledging the large number of Chinese-owned businesses in Kingston, Mayor Swaby shared that he and the KSAMC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) held discussions with the Chinese Ambassador. These discussions were aimed at sensitizing Chinese business owners about the city’s waste management requirements.
The Mayor extended his gratitude to the Ambassador, who has offered to help by sharing critical information on Chinese platforms. Additionally, KSAMC secured the services of a translator to facilitate smoother communication between city officials and Chinese business owners, addressing any potential language barriers.
“This is an ongoing initiative. Our compliance team will conduct unannounced visits to business establishments throughout the municipality to ensure they are abiding by proper waste disposal regulations,” Mayor Swaby added.
Future Updates and Monitoring
Mayor Swaby reaffirmed KSAMC’s commitment to improving the state of Kingston’s commercial areas. He urged businesses to cooperate with the city’s regulations, emphasizing that violators will face legal consequences. The enforcement drive will continue with periodic inspections and unannounced visits to ensure full compliance.
876newsja.com will keep you updated on further developments as Kingston’s waste management policies evolve.
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