Welcome to the latest recap from the Serenity Resource Connector Local Governance and Community Development Forum, held in partnership with the Clarendon Municipal Corporation. In this session, we spotlight the Commercial Services and Divestment Committee and the Local Economic Development (LED) Officer, showcasing their critical roles in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and empowering communities.
Joining us for this enlightening discussion were:
Councillor Collin Henry, Chairman of the Commercial Services and Divestment Committee, ensures policy compliance and efficient market operations.
Miss Kimberley Ashley, Local Economic Development Officer, champions partnerships, fosters opportunities, and drives initiatives to elevate Clarendon’s economy.
Let’s explore how these leaders, together with the community, are paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous parish.
Transforming Clarendon: The Role of the Commercial Services and Divestment Committee
Councillor Collin Henry outlined how this committee ensures smooth commercial activities while supporting both small and large businesses across Clarendon.
Key Functions
Policy Development:
Creates guidelines for market operations and commercial activities.
Oversees property rentals, leases, and cemetery regulations.
Market Management and Vending Regulation:
Provides vendors with clear guidelines to maintain safety and order.
Partners with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) to enforce regulations.
Market District Coverage:
Manages key markets in May Pen, Kellits, Spaldings, and Chapelton.
Implements safety measures to protect vendors and shoppers.
Empowering Growth: The Role of the Local Economic Development Officer
Miss Kimberley Ashley shared her dual role as LED Officer and Commercial Services Manager, focused on fostering economic growth and engaging the community.
Core Responsibilities
Economic Assessment:
Identifies areas for growth by analysing the parish’s economic climate.
Sectoral Development:
Develops programmes to boost sectors like agribusiness, tourism, and small enterprises.
Community Engagement:
Facilitates dialogues to encourage resident and business participation in economic initiatives.
External Partnerships:
Attracts resources and opportunities to benefit Clarendon.
Works closely with the Commercial Services and Divestment Committee to align strategies.
Connecting Residents and Businesses to Opportunities
Engaging with the LED Office is easy and accessible:
Visit or Call: Stop by the Commercial Services Department, call 876-848-4120, or email ledo.clarendon@gmail.com.
Community Partnerships: Collaborate with organisations like the Clarendon Parish Development Committee, Social Development Commission (SDC), and the May Pen Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Stay Informed: Follow updates on social media or attend town hall meetings to stay involved.
Urban and Rural Development: A Balanced Approach
Clarendon is working to meet the diverse needs of its communities through targeted projects:
Northern Clarendon: Farmers benefit from tools and resources for agricultural expansion.
Southern Clarendon: Backyard farming initiatives enhance food security.
Youth Empowerment: Programmes like Biz Bridge, backed by the Canadian LEAF Project, provide entrepreneurial training and grants of up to 150,000 JMD, helping young entrepreneurs thrive.
Accountability and Transparency in Action
The Municipal Corporation ensures transparency and builds trust through:
Regular Audits: Conducted internally and by the Auditor General.
Public Access: Residents can access information via town halls, written requests under the Access to Information Act (2002), or the upcoming Municipal Corporation website, launching in December.
Economic Opportunities in Clarendon
Miss Ashley outlined several sectors ripe for development and investment:
Agribusiness: Export potential for agricultural produce.
Manufacturing: Cost-effective goods for local markets.
Tourism: Ecotourism opportunities at Bullhead Mountain and Southern Plains attractions.
Business Facilitation: Business coaching and mentorship programmes.
Housing: Residential development opportunities in May Pen.
Residents and investors are encouraged to visit the Clarendon Municipal Corporation to explore these opportunities.
Spotlighting Success Stories
UNDP Women’s Empowerment Initiative:
Impacted over 60 women affected by domestic violence.
Provided training, personal development, and grants to start businesses.
Success stories include women from Thompson Town now creating jobs in their communities.
Youth Empowerment:
Businesses like Paradise Blends showcase the impact of entrepreneurial support, emphasising compliance and sustainability.
Sustaining Progress and Preserving Culture
The Corporation balances economic growth with preserving Clarendon’s unique cultural and environmental assets:
Ecotourism: Protects heritage sites and natural landmarks.
Strategic Development: Aligns initiatives with the Local Sustainable Development Plan to ensure community-driven growth.
Your Role in Clarendon’s Future
Every resident has a part to play in creating a prosperous Clarendon. Here’s how you can contribute:
Engage: Join community groups or attend town hall meetings to stay informed.
Support Local: Shop at local markets and participate in parish events.
Share Ideas: Submit suggestions to the Municipal Corporation to influence decision-making.
Resources That Work for You
Behind Clarendon’s progress is a strong network of local, national, and international partnerships:
Local Resources:
The JBDC, May Pen Chamber of Commerce, and HEART Trust/NSTA offer critical support for training and business growth.
International Collaborators:
Partners like UNDP, Canadian League, and USAID provide funding and expertise for impactful projects.
Grants and Loans:
Financial aid is accessible through programs like Jamaica National Small Business Loans.
Christmas in Clarendon: Safe and Vibrant Commerce
The festive season is here, and Clarendon is ready for celebration and commerce!
Designated Spaces: Vending locations include Muir Park, Stock Street, and the old police station property.
Extended Periods: Vending runs from November 18th to January 4th, offering vendors a longer window for sales.
Safety First: Collaboration with the JCF ensures a secure and enjoyable holiday season.
Councillor Henry encourages residents and visitors to enjoy the season, saying, “We want everyone to have a joyful Christmas while supporting our local vendors and businesses.”
Looking Ahead
As Clarendon grows into an economic hub, the focus remains on inclusivity, sustainability, and collaboration:
Modernised Cemeteries: Discussions with Jamalco are advancing plans for a new, state-of-the-art cemetery.
Investor Partnerships: External collaborations will bring more opportunities to the parish.
Stay tuned for announcements about the Christmas Tree Lighting and upcoming development projects!
Stay Connected
Stay informed about opportunities and initiatives in Clarendon:
Visit the Serenity Resource Connector website for weekly blog updates.
Follow us on social media for news and events.
Join us every Thursday for forums that spotlight community growth and development.
Let’s build a brighter, stronger Clarendon together!
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