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Gov’t Moves To Collect $5b In Outstanding Property Taxes

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The Department of Local Government has started proceedings against several landowners who owe property taxes for over five years.

On Sunday, approximately 400 property owners across the island were listed in a gazette and given an April 1 deadline to clear the outstanding amount.

According to Calvert Thomas, director of revenue enhancement and mobilisation in the Department of Local Government, the list of properties in arrears is much more extensive, with property owners over the last seven years owing in excess of $5 billion.

He said the department was able to collect $2.7 billion of the projected $3 billion for the 2010-2011 budget, leaving a shortfall of $300 million for the period.

“The fiscal year ends on the 31st [March], so we expect to have an increase in collection by then,” said Thomas.

He said those listed owed for a continuous period of five years and no steps had been taken on their part to clear the outstanding amount. Among them were Kaiser Bauxite, Sugar Company of Jamaica Holdings Ltd, Black Brothers, Greenvale Investment, Jamaica Agricultural Society, Max Brown, and Malcolm Housen.

Under the law, two gazettes must be published within a month but not more than three months before any legal action can be taken. However, persons have been responding to the first publication.

“Persons have called with queries, making recommendations or suggestions, asking for amnesty, more time, or wanting to make arrangements to clear the arrears,” said Ann-Marie Mittoo, the local government department’s director of communications.

So far, at least one person has taken issue with the gazette.

Attorney-at-law Frederick Hamaty has sought redress from Prime Minister Bruce Golding on the listing of his deceased father, N.W. Hamaty, for lands in Negril.

Stating that the correct name of his father was in fact M.N. Hamaty, he said the land was sold and the title transferred at least three times since his father owned the property back in the early 1980s.

“I am, therefore, requesting, in your capacity as minister of lands, an immediate retraction of the information contained in the publication which has caused much embarrassment, and an apology of equal prominence in the two newspapers which have defamed the good name and professional reputation of my deceased father and his family,” Hamaty said in his letter to Golding, outlining the trail of ownership and the title and volume number of each transfer.

Property taxes are used to pay for street lighting, beautification of communities, parochial road rehabilitation, and garbage collection and disposal.

Jamaica Re-elected to Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF) Board of Directors

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Jamaica, today, through the nomination of the Honourable Robert Montague, Minister of State with responsibility for Local Government, was re-elected to the Board of Directors and also copped a place on the newly-created Executive Committee of the prestigious Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF) Board for two years.
Minister Montague, who is unavoidably absent from the Sixth-Biennial Commonwealth Local Government conference which came to an end today, was elected in a close run-off with African nation Ghana.
As a former Chair of the CLGF, Minister Montague, who found favour among his peers is known for his vibrant leadership and commitment to local democracy in the Commonwealth.
Jamaica which fielded a nine-member delegation to the conference also participated in the history-making initiatives – Young Professionals Forum represented by the KSAC’s Andrine McLaren and the Commonwealth Women’s Network which were introduced for the first time.
The conference which was held between March 15 and 18 ended with the adoption of the Cardiff Consensus which urged among other features, the need for national governments to empower local governments to play a lead role in the advancement of the local economic development process.
The conference was held under the theme: Energising local economies – partnership for prosperous communities.

The next biennial conference will be held in Uganda in 2013.

Local Authorities Respond Favourably to OCG’s Request for Submission of Information on ‘Forced Accounts’ Methodology

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The Department of Local Government has been expeditiously facilitating the submission of information from the island’s parish councils regarding the use of ‘forced accounts’ in response to a requisition from the Office of the Contractor General.

According to Director General in the Department of Local Government, Major Richard Reese, “So far eight (8) Local Authorities have submitted information and we have been facilitating the research and compilation of the requisite information for the OCG through the respective councils in order to meet the deadline of March 11, 2011.’

Major Reese was responding to a request from the Office of the Contractor General which indicated the need for information on the use of the Force Accounts Contract Award Methodology.

A Forced Account is a project implementation methodology where government entities implement rehabilitative or developmental works by utilising its internal resources and equipment, rather than contracting the work to an external entity. In such instances, the Government entity may be

2…/councils complying with OCG request on force account

required to procure raw material/or engage temporary labour and equipment to carry out the work.

The eight councils that have submitted information so far are: Westmoreland, Portland, Clarendon, St. Ann, St. James, St. Elizabeth and St. Thomas and the KSAC.

The Director General has expressed confidence that the remaining five (5) councils will comply, however, the manual extraction of information and compilation is delaying the submission. In light of this, the DLG has requested an extension to March 18, 2011, in an effort to ensure accuracy.

Contact: Ann-Marie Mittoo
Communications Department
920-8152; 754-0992-9; 579-7454
Fax: 754-1011

Local Government Refutes allegations of ‘Cherry Picking” of Allocations to Parish Councils & Embraces OCG plans to Audit Councils

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Minister with responsibility for Local Government, Robert Montague has stoutly denied allegations that the Department of Local Government has been allocating funds to the island’s parish councils disproportionately as a result of the proposed upcoming by-elections, while welcoming the decision by the OCG to do an islandwide audit all fourteen local authorities.

Record disbursements through the Parochial Revenue Funds (PRF) and Subvention from central government indicate that all councils since financial year 2010-2011 have received funding for drain cleaning, patching and maintenance of parochial roadways. The PRF is the dedicated source of funding for the rehabilitation and maintenance of parochial roads and drain cleaning.

Minister Montague was responding to allegations made by members of the Opposition (PNP) at a press briefing recently, regarding perceptions of disparity particularly to councils that are within the four local divisions up for by-elections.

The four divisions where vacancies exist due to the deaths of sitting councillors are Frankfield in Clarendon, Duncans in Trelawny, Spanish Town in St. Catherine and Norbrook in Kingston & St. Andrew .

…/allegations Councils

In citing a few examples, Minister Montague pointed to divisions in councils and parishes where no imminent elections or political activities are slated to be held. These include the Royal Flats division in Manchester which received $4.5 million to cover an open pit; Port Antonio which received $5million and an additional $5million for the Titchfield Road in the Port Antonio division, as well as the Greater Portmore division where $4million dollars has been allocated for road repairs to Fourth Street, while Adair Drive in Waterford was allocated $4m.

Minister Montague has since extended and invitation and the hand of cooperation to members of the Opposition to be a part of a review committee that assesses the projects that are submitted to the Department of Local Government by the Parish councils for financial allocations, to ensure value, transparency and accountability in the expenditure of taxpayers’ monies.

He regards the allegation as baseless and has called for an apology and retraction from the Leader of the Opposition, particularly in light of the sensitive nature of the reasons behind the by-elections and the undue stress being faced by the bereaved families.

Also in response to media reports of the decision by the Office of the Contractor General (OCG) to audit councils, Minister Montague has greeted this announcement with alacrity citing this as a move in the right direction and a vital performance monitoring system that is endorsed and underscored by the principles of good local governance in embracing accountability, transparency and responsiveness to the people of Jamaica through local government reform.

Contact: 
Communications Unit
754-0992-9; 579-7454

Local Government Takes Action Against Officers Responsible for Delay in Hanover Infirmary Construction

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Following investigations by the Department of Local Government into the delay of the construction of the Lucea infirmary in Hanover, two officers of the technical services unit with responsibility for the project were subject to disciplinary action resulting in them severing ties with the organisation.

The Hanover infirmary has been the subject of much controversy in recent times following the delay in the construction of the new building for which ground was broken October last year with a six-month completion timeline.

Investigations revealed that design flaws were detected during construction due to unapproved modifications being made to the drawings outside of the approved design without consultation with the Board of Supervision which has oversight responsibility for the infirmaries and which had signed off on the original designs.

Minister with responsibility for Local Government, Robert Montague last month issued a directive for the Director General, Major Richard Reese, to conduct a thorough investigation into the implementation and execution of the project with a view to resolving the issues speedily particularly in light of the urgency of the need for the facilities for the nation’s elderly and most vulnerable.

The Director General subsequently requested a technical report on the architectural design plan and site.

The report indicated that the unapproved design was discovered which resulted in the suspension of construction in December last year to facilitate corrective action and revised estimates.

In addition it was also discovered that the estimates provided were not properly done resulting in a cost variation, while the unauthorised modifications have led to the department having to absorb cost overruns and variations that exceeded the budget for the project. The overall project variation is being determined.

The new infirmary was slated to cost approximately $27million, $20 million of which has been financed through the CHASE funds. To date, the contractors have been paid approximately $3. 9 million dollars.

A comprehensive technical review of the project is currently being undertaken following which a resumption date will be announced.

Major Reese has since advised that the two technical officers were found negligent in the execution of their duties and were last Friday interviewed resulting in their resignation and dismissal.

The Hanover infirmary currently accommodates approximately 50 residents 30 males and 20 females on 1.5 acres of land.

Contact: Ann-Marie Mittoo
Communications Department
920-8152; 754-0992-9; 579-7454
Fax: 754-1011

Minister Montague names 2010 recipients of Local Government Awards

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The 2nd Annual Local Government Awards held on Saturday January 22, 2011 was extremely successful as a result of meticulous organization and creativity reflected by the black, green and gold decor complimented by the venue which helped to create an amazing atmosphere. The function at Laughing Waters began at approximately 2:00 p.m. with senior staff members of the parish councils, Minister of Local Government and his staff members mingling, enjoying the lunch and entertainment before approaching the much anticipated formal part of the function, the award ceremony.
Mr. Robert Hill, Director of Local Government Administration was pleased to announce the eight Parish Councils which were recipients of Local Government Awards for Outstanding Performance in 2010. Parish Council Awardees and the award for outstanding performance in specific areas are as follows:  Hanover Parish Council in Best Property Tax Compliance, St. Thomas Parish Council in Prudent Financial Management, St. Catherine Parish Council in Engaging Citizens’ Participation in the Affairs of Local Government, Trelawny Parish Council in Best Performance Commercial Services Management and St. James Parish Council in Improvement in Own Source Revenues.      St. Mary Parish Council received 1st place in All-Island Local Government Environmental Project competition followed by Westmoreland and St. Thomas Parish Councils respectively.
Awardees also included Professor Rex Nettleford for commitment to Advancing Local Government Reform, National Solid Waste Management Authority for Best Performing Local Government Agency and several Board of Supervision awards for long service were announced such as Mrs. Patricia Anderson for Outstanding Service as Inspector of the Poor to the Clarendon Parish Council. The Minister’s aAward went to Former Mayor Ralph Anglin for Invaluable contribution to the advancement of Local Government in Jamaica.
The Chairman’s and Hon. Minister Robert Montague good natured jokes were enjoyed and added a nice touch to the function. Minister Montague also acknowledged the efforts of mayors and parish councils in their tasks alongside thanking AGM medical donor Mr. Allan Goldenberg for his Philanthropy towards Medical Institutions. Other persons present at the function were: Speaker of the House, Delroy Chuck; Mrs. Joan Gordon-Webley, Director of NSWMA, Bertel Moore, Mayor of Westmoreland, Dr. Andrew Wheatley, Mayor of St. Catherine, Floyd Patterson, Mayor of Portland, Harold Brown, Mayor of St. Thomas, Charles Sinclair Jr, Mayor of St. James and Richard Creary, Mayor of Port Maria among others. Mr. Errol Green, Town Clerk of KSAC, Secretary/ Managers Mr. Alfred Graham, Mrs. Opal Beharie, Mr. Gerald Lee, Mr. Clinton Gordon, Mrs. Kerry Chambers, Mr. Michael Morris and Mrs. Fay Neufville also attended the function. Rory Frankson provided the audience intermittently throughout the ceremony with splendid entertainment by performing a genre of music.

After the awards were announced dinner was served buffet style and attendees were once again socializing and enjoying the music from the sound system. Persons began leaving at around 6:30 p.m. as result of the rain however they left the function with several memorable moments and high points.

Maroon Communities to Benefit from $1.6 m Support from Local Government

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Minister of State with responsibility for Local Government in the Office of the Prime Minister, Robert Montague announced a $1.6million budgetary support to the Maroon Secretariat for special employment, beautification projects and administrative support .

The announcement was made this afternoon following an exploratory meeting that was designed to entertain dialogue on forging a relationship and strengthening the partnership between the local government authorities and the Maroon community.

The special meeting of Maroon Leaders which was convened by Minister Montague at the Department of Local Government, saw the attendance of ten (10) members from maroon locations such as Charlestown and Moore Town in Portland, Scott’s Hall in St. Mary, and Accompong in St. Elizabeth.

In his remarks to the Maroons, Minister Montague noted, “ as part of our local government reform thrust it becomes imperative that we use the opportunity for a new type of engagement and dialogue with the Maroons and to explore with you how you view the proposal for a relationship with the local government authorities.”

The Maroon leaders while embracing the sentiments of the Minister “applauded him for seeking to engage them in dialogue and extending an invitation to them to sit at the formal table

Maroon Support –DLG…/2

for discussion.”

Both parties agreed that the treaty governing the Maroons must be respected in going forward in any relationship or engagement with the local state.

The Maroons who celebrate their 273rd Anniversary on January 6, 2011, reiterated that any relationship between the local government authorities and themselves will have to recognize them as a “special people” and as such would put the proposal of forging a relationship to their community members before proceeding in making any commitments.

The meeting which included technical personnel of the Department of Local Government ended in agreement with the Minister requesting that the following conditions be pursued:

• Maroon leaders to hold consultation with respective community members
• All parties to reconvene at a date to be announced following the consultations to define the structure and function of the relationship.

Contact: Communications Unit 920-8152; 754-0992-9, 579-7454

See background info attached

LAMP Phase II Partners with Financial Institutions

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The Honourable Robert Montague, Minister with responsibility for Local Government recently announced a partnership between the Land Administration and Management Programme (LAMP II). The partnership is aimed at making land titling even more accessible.

Recognizing that even with the reduced rates being offered some land owners were still finding it difficult to raise the fees necessary to access the services provided under LAMP II, the government sought to secure alternate sources of funding for land owners by inviting financial institutions to partner with the programme. Seven (7) institutions responded and have come on board to offer special lending facilities to landowners wishing to participate in the programme.

In making the announcement during a media launch which took place at the Department’s 85, Hagley Park Road, office on November 4, 2010, Minister Montague, who chairs LAMP, lauded the seven (7) participating institutions for their patriotism.

“.. I really want to pass on the congratulations and commendations of the Government. I must say that these seven institutions have proven that they are not only responsive and responsible, but that they are 100 per cent Jamaican and committed to the national goals,” Mr. Montague said.

He said that what the financial institutions have done in coming forward is to package a product unique to themselves that speaks to a specific segment of the market that is out there.

LAMP’s Project Director, Gloria Brown, also welcomed the collaboration, which she said, is expected to “accelerate the titling programme.” She added that with over 40 per cent of the total parcels of land being unregistered, there needed to be a radical shift in the approach to registration. “LAMP, in its effort to complete the processing of over 15,000 titles, gladly welcomes its new partners,” she added.

He assured that once a client qualifies for assistance they will not be turned away. “So whether the amount (required) is $100 million or $1 million, our financial institutions are committed to carrying the client through the process,” Mr. Montague said.

Work under LAMP II, which was launched earlier this year, is expected to be completed within three years. The programme was piloted in St. Catherine in 2000, and was expanded to incorporate Clarendon, Manchester, St. Elizabeth, and St. Thomas, with St. Mary, St. Ann and Portland added recently.

Mrs. Brown noted that the programme has been successful in providing persons with registered titles for their land and has an 88 per cent success in registration, compared to a 20 to 40 per cent success at the private bar. She credited the high level of success to the passing of the Special Provisions Act, which addresses the major problem of subdivisions, cost and route of title. Under the Act, all applications for first registration are based on tax roll value, so all the cost will relate to the value of the property on the tax roll.

Under this partnership, the institutions will provide loans to landholders in St. Elizabeth, Clarendon and parts of Manchester, to fund the attendant costs to register their properties.
Institutions participating are: National Housing Trust (NHT), National Commercial Bank (NCB), Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), First Caribbean International Bank, Capital and Credit Merchant Bank, People’s Cooperative Bank, and St. Elizabeth Cooperative Credit Union.

An expo of products being offered by these Institutions will be staged at the Santa Cruz Transportation Centre from 10:00 am to 4:00 p.m. on Friday November 19, 2010.

Parish Councils get $30m Emergency Funds for Drain Cleaning & Vector Control Programme

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A total of thirty-point-two-million dollars ($30.2m) has been allocated to the island’s fourteen (14) Local Authorities for immediate drain cleaning and vector control in the respective parishes.

The announcement was made today by the Hon. Robert Montague, Minister of State with portfolio responsibility for Local Government, following a series of tours to parishes that have been ravaged by flood waters resulting from the passage of Tropical Storm Nicole.

The sum will see each council receiving between $1million and $3million dollars towards drain cleaning and $200,000 and $500,000 for vector control.

In correspondence to the Local Authorities regarding the allocation, the Minister has requested that photos be taken of the drains prior to cleaning and afterwards with a “significant marker being apparent in both photographs.”

He has also instructed that “a complete programme of works to be undertaken be submitted reflecting the exact amount of funds disbursed as well as a comprehensive audit at each stage of the disbursement process.”

The emergency drain cleaning and vector control funds were released based on requests from Councils and recent tours of some parishes by Minister Montague last week.

New Infirmary for Hanover

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More than 150 residents and community members in the environs of Hanover witnessed the ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of a new infirmary for the parish.

The new Infirmary which will be built at cost of $27,160,356.79M with $20M of that amount being provided by the CHASE Fund and the additional $7,160,356.79M being put up by the Department of Local Government, will utilize the Free Form Polystyrene (EPS) Panel and will be the first of its kind.

This method of construction utilizes 3-D panels which result in the building being 40% cooler than traditional block and steel building therefore requiring less air conditioning. Additionally, it costs over nine million dollars less that building with traditional block and steel.

In his address to the gathering Minister with responsibility Local Government Hon. Robert Montague charged the contractors to maintain high standards as well as to keep the project within budget.

“I will not tolerate any cost overruns or shoddy workmanship on this project” he said. The Minister also implored the contractors to employ non partisan methods of employment in order to maintain good relationship with the community.

He also pointed out that that while the funds were procured some 2 years ago, the procurement and drafting process have taken some time. The entire construction should be completed in six (6) months.

The new facilities will include Nurses Station and Bathrooms, an open ward area in front of the Nurses’ Station for the very ill residents, and a Poor Relief office. The Infirmary will also benefit from a brand new clothes dryer and $100,000.00 courtesy of the Department of Local Government, towards starting a therapeutic vegetable garden.

Minister Montague suggested that the recreation room in the new facility be named “the Ruth Williams Recreational Center”, after the former Matron.

He also urged the members of the community to be vigilant regarding the progress of the construction and develop a healthy working relationship with the contractor to facilitate community involvement in the project.

The Hanover Infirmary currently house 56 residents and is situated on approximately 1.5 acres of land.