ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AT THE LOCAL LEVEL

Jamaica Debates Commission

Local government and economic development go hand in hand and the role of the municipal corporation (formerly known as a parish council) is two-fold. On one hand, the Local Governance Act outlines that a municipal corporation should proactively mobilise, collect and optimise sources of revenue that are within its remit. These funds should be used to meet the critical needs of citizens within its locality.  Additionally, the law states that municipal corporations are to foster and promote economic development, but what does that look like?

Municipal corporations are responsible for the regulation of small businesses and spaces that keep the wheels of commerce turning. These include barbershops, meat shops, community bars and markets. The law also gives municipal corporations the power to designate an area as a Business Improvement District or Special Improvement District. This designation provides an opportunity for the municipal corporation to work with business leaders and other stakeholders to boost the growth of the district.

In addition to municipal corporations, the Social Development Commission (SDC), which falls under the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, helps to promote economic development at the community level. For example, the SDC’s Local Economic Development Support Programme provides training to grassroot businesses and entrepreneurs.

According to the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, close to 400 local economic initiatives were supported across the island in the 2022/2023 fiscal year, generating employment for 1,500 citizens.

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