Community and Society
SPTC to regulate the Moving Houses and Oversize Cargo
Due to recent events, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has implemented regulations to manage the movement of houses and oversized cargo on the island. These measures are essential for maintaining orderly development, ensuring community safety, and reducing the impact of construction activities on traffic and infrastructure.
Community and Society
Injunction against Artisan Marker Project at El Embarcadero dismissed
The construction of a new artisan market at the El Embarcadero site on Nurse Shark Street in downtown San Pedro has been allowed to continue after it was temporarily halted. An injunction was filed against the project in November 2024. On February 3rd, a judge in the High Court in Belize City dismissed the case, granting legal approval for the project led by the Ministry of Tourism and the Area Representative.
Community and Society
Residents urge authorities to do more for street infrastructure on the island
In collaboration with the central government, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has launched an ambitious project to pave the main streets in all subdivisions. However, many residents living along the side streets are urging authorities to also upgrade their areas. Reports highlight issues in neighborhoods like San Mateo and the DFC subdivision, where the primary complaint is the lack of drainage. This situation makes some streets impassable after rainfall, forcing residents to take alternative routes, including crossing private property, to access their homes.
Community and Society
Taxi Operators now have designated parking in front of the SPBE
The taxi federation has been granted preferential parking on the street front of the new facility of San Pedro Belize Express. The long-standing dispute escalated following the relocation of the water taxi terminal, with taxi operators accusing golf cart rental companies of poaching their customers by soliciting at ports of entry. This practice is deemed illegal, as the licenses of the golf cart companies require them to operate solely from their designated office locations.
Community and Society
San Pedro Veterinary Hospital announces closure date
The impending closure of the San Pedro Veterinarian Hospital (SPVH) on March 7, 2025, poses a challenge for pet owners on Ambergris Caye. Renowned for its appreciation of animals, the San Pedro community now faces limited options for veterinary care, raising concerns about the welfare of pets in the area.
Community and Society
NCFC hosts workshop on legal restrictions and sanctions of reporting on minors
On February 21, 2025, the National Commission for Families and Children (NCFC) in Belize held a journalism workshop at the Caribbean Motors Board Room. This event aimed to educate media professionals about the legal boundaries and penalties associated with reporting on minors and other vulnerable groups. The workshop emphasized the significance of protecting the rights and privacy of children in media coverage in alignment with international and national commitments to ensure their well-being.
Community and Society
Letter to the Editor: Moving Houses on the island
It seems there should be some basic "rules" about moving houses on the island. I imagine most people recognize the inconvenience factor. But the danger part comes in when we consider the need for emergency vehicles--fire, medical (ambulance service), and, even, law enforcement--to get through. And when a house is completely blocking the road, people who may need emergency services (which may be even life-and-death situations) may be precluded from receiving the services they need.
Community and Society
Letter to the Editor: Special Thanks for a Successful February 1 Emergency Blood Driv
The family of Maria Kumul and the San Pedro Community Blood Drive Group wish to thank all those who came to donate blood at the emergency blood drive held February 1 at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II. Over 55 members of the Ambergris Caye community came to donate. At the end of the day, 36 pints of life-saving blood were generously donated.
