As we continue the implementation of the KSAMC Signage Regularization Campaign, I wish to provide a brief update on our progress and again encourage greater participation as we enter the final weeks of this concession period.

As of March 5th, invoices totaling approximately JMD 34.5 million havebeen issued under the campaign. Of that amount, approximately JMD 5 million has been collected, of which JMD 3.4 million represent arrears. While this represents some level of response, it also indicates that a number of entities still have outstanding obligations that need to be addressed before the campaign comes to a close.

As I have stated previously, this initiative was designed to provide afair and structured opportunity for businesses and other entities with publicly visible signage to regularize their status, settle outstanding arrears, and bring their signage into compliance before enforcement activities intensify.

In parallel with the ongoing sensitization efforts, the KSAMC has now assembled an enforcement team comprising the City Inspector, representatives from the Building and Planning Departments, and Legal Services. This team will examine and coordinate the enforcement options available to the Corporation. We will also be engaging the Heads of Area Four and Area Five Police and divisional leadership across Kingston and St. Andrew, to support a structured enforcement approach where necessary.

We are now approaching the end of this campaign, and I want to remind all entities that time is running out. While many persons tend to wait until the last moment, I strongly encourage all operators to take the necessary steps now to regularize their signage while the concessions under the campaign remain available.

In addition, the KSAMC has formally written to Permanent Secretaries of all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies regarding their responsibility for signage on buildings under their administration. To date, only two responses have been received. Permanent Secretaries are reminded that all signage must be approved, outstanding fees settled within the concession period, and designated officers assigned to liaise with the KSAMC. Compliance is essential to uphold planning regulations and support orderly development. Permanent Secretaries are accountable for ensuring their Ministries meet these obligations.

Members of the public are encouraged to stay informed through the KSAMC’s social media platforms, the Corporation’s website, or by contacting the Compliance Unit for guidance on the regularization process.

Finally, it is important to emphasize that the end of this campaign does not mark the end of signage regulation. Signage fees remain payable annually,and compliance will continue to be enforced. What this campaign offers is a defined window for regularization, which closes on March 31. We therefore urge all affected entities to act now, settle their outstanding obligations, and avoid enforcement action later.

His Worship the Mayor of Kingston

Councillor Andrew A. Swaby, JP