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Clarendon Civic Affairs Forum: Empowering Community Engagement and Local Governance in Jamaica

Writer's picture: Winsome M. Sherrier WitterWinsome M. Sherrier Witter
Image of Councillor Tanyalee Williams (L) and Shanique Samuels (R) of the Clarendon Municipal Corporation

Welcome to another empowering session from the Clarendon Municipal Corporation, hosted by Serenity Resource Connector. As we approach the end of October, our forum remains a vibrant space where civic pride meets community engagement, spotlighting how Clarendon continues to grow through shared efforts in local governance.


Clarendon Civic Affairs Forum: Fostering Local Pride and Engagement

This month’s forum, led by Winsome Sherrier Witter, highlighted the Clarendon Civic and Community Affairs Committee. Participants gained deeper insights into local governance, seeing how the municipal corporation bridges community needs and municipal services, making Clarendon a more vibrant place to live.


Local Leaders on the Frontlines of Community Development

Our panel included Councillor Tanyalee Williams, Chair of the Civic and Community Affairs Committee and Community Programmes Coordinator Shanique Samuels. Their perspectives showcased the committee’s hands-on role in elevating civic life, from managing essential services like garbage collection to enhancing green spaces and historic sites like the Bull Head Mountains. This work isn’t just about maintenance, but building pride in our shared spaces.


Celebrating Civic Initiatives and Heritage

Councillor Williams highlighted impactful initiatives that celebrate our heritage, like the Bull Head Mountains preservation project and community events that honour local heroes. These efforts remind us of our history, helping us cherish and protect it for future generations. Independence Day and Heroes Day events also reinforce a sense of unity, bringing residents together to celebrate community achievements and those who make a difference.


Empowering Youth and Strengthening Community Ties

Shanique Samuels shared how initiatives like the Youth in Business programme equip young people with essential business and financial literacy skills, helping them become tomorrow's leaders. The corporation’s partnerships with organisations like JCDC, PDC, and SDC play a critical role in delivering these programmes and enhancing the corporation’s digital presence. Exciting developments are on the horizon, including town hall meetings for Local Government and Community Month and the eagerly awaited website launch.


Insights and Feedback from Our Community

Throughout the session, community members like Ishmael Francis voiced their enthusiasm for more town hall meetings, highlighting a shared commitment to open dialogue between citizens and leaders. Comments and feedback revealed strong support for ongoing civic projects, underscoring a community eager to participate actively in shaping its future.


Looking Ahead: Exciting Initiatives for Civic Growth

The Municipal Corporation has an engaging lineup planned, including the launch of the "Compliant Community Award" for communities showing exemplary civic responsibility, especially through timely tax payments. Additionally, the upcoming website launch promises a new level of accessibility and transparency for Clarendon residents, offering fresh ways to engage with local governance.


Councillor Williams encourages residents to reach out through email, phone, or in-person meetings to ensure their voices are heard. A proactive community is essential to meeting everyone’s needs effectively.


Join Us in Building a Brighter Clarendon

As we look to the future, the Clarendon Municipal Corporation and Serenity Resource Connector remain dedicated to empowering communities through civic education and participation. This forum is more than a discussion—it’s a movement to foster a thriving, unified Clarendon where every voice contributes to lasting change.


To watch the forum replay, click here and stay informed on community events by visiting the Serenity Resource Connector website. Join us every fourth Thursday at 8 PM for more discussions on governance and development in Clarendon. Whether you’re tuning in live or catching the replay, your voice makes a difference.


 

Replay & Community Feedback

Thank you to everyone who joined us live for the Clarendon Municipal Corporation's Budget Consultation Meeting. If you missed it or want to revisit important discussions, watch the full replay here: Watch the Replay.


Your feedback matters—please share your thoughts on the meeting in the comments below or reach out directly. Each insight you provide helps guide the continued development of our community!


Our sincere appreciation goes to our sponsors, Stewart’s Hardware and Privileged Pro, for making this livestream possible. Their commitment to local governance and community engagement helps us keep you informed with essential updates.


 

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