St. James Municipal Corporation Sees 380 Per Cent Jump in Charles Gordon Market Fee Income

Fee income collected by the St. James Municipal Corporation from market operations has grown by 380 per cent, linked to more traders now doing business inside the Charles Gordon Market in Montego Bay.

Mayor and Councillor Richard Vernon told the Corporation’s monthly sitting on Thursday, 14 May, that collections each month have moved from $250,000 to $1.2 million.

He said stepped-up enforcement by the local authority pushed many vendors off the streets and into the market grounds.

“So far, we have relocated a significant proportion of the vending population, and that has resulted in a notable increase in revenue collected from market fees,” he said.

Councillor Vernon stressed that the Corporation must still make room for vendors, but steady income is needed to keep the market running.

“We have to keep reducing the dependence on subsidies to keep the Charles Gordon Market operational and, of course, strengthen our financial capacity,” he added.

He reported that work is under way to upgrade the site, including fixing sidewalks and roofs, putting in electrical lighting, upgrading restrooms, and refreshing shop units.

The mayor also outlined a plan to set apart zones for wholesale and retail sellers to ease pressure on smaller operators.

“They’re operating in the same space as wholesalers and, therefore, cannot compete effectively. We have identified a section of the market for wholesalers, and they will be separated from retailers,” he said, adding that full particulars will be released when the arrangement is finished.

Separately, the Corporation will start granting animal pound licences from 18 May, answering public worries about stray animals.

“We have heard the concerns raised and received calls and letters regarding the issue of stray animals. This is our response, and we are committed to ensuring that persons who wish to operate will receive the necessary support to become operational immediately,” Councillor Vernon stated.

The licensing system will draw on the Pound Act and the Animals Act so pound services run smoothly and within the law.

Applicants must file with the St. James Municipal Corporation.

Mayor Vernon said the measure should improve public safety and ease problems stray animals cause in neighbourhoods.