Saturday, October 18, 2025

Community and Society

No update on restricting large trucks in downtown San Pedro

In late July of this year, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) discussed a new policy to restrict large sand/dump trucks in the downtown area. Mayor Gualberto 'Wally' Nuñez mentioned a new regulation requiring these large vehicles, mainly transport construction material, to be barged. The new policy also restricted trailers over 20 feet long. However, no further updates on this regulation have been shared while these large trucks continue to drive through the town core, which is seemingly unregulated.

Superintendent Castillo comments on golf cart thefts on the island

Recently, there has been a troubling increase in the theft of golf carts in Ambergris Caye, causing concern among the island’s residents. Reports indicate a significant rise in cart thefts over the past few weeks. Stolen carts have been found abandoned in secluded areas of the island, with essential components such as the engine removed by individuals looking to make illegal profits. This criminal activity is suspected of being connected to the illicit trade of vehicle parts on and off the island. Residents affected by this issue are urging the police to intervene promptly and apprehend the perpetrators while also calling for increased vigilance across the island.

SPTC enforces regulations on sandwich boards and public parking

To address traffic congestion and improve parking availability on Ambergris Caye, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has implemented regulations regarding sandwich boards. Effective immediately, the SPTC will confiscate any sandwich boards or other signage obstructing pedestrian pathways and inconvenience motorists. Businesses are reminded to keep their sandwich boards within their premises to help alleviate traffic-related issues.

San Pedro Gas Turbine Successfully Commissioned as BEL Works to Replace Damaged Transformer at the San Pedro Generation Facility

Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) informs its Customers and the public that the San Pedro Gas Turbine (San Pedro GT) was successfully commissioned and load tested up to its rated capacity of 21 MW last week Thursday, September 5. However, the San Pedro GT is currently unavailable to supply power into the grid because of the failure (for a second time) of one of the three transformers that is needed to connect it to the grid, which occurred in the early morning of Saturday, September 7.

San Pedro Lions Club participates in Leo’s Forum in the Dominican Republic

From September 4th through the 8th, San Pedro Lions Club members participated in the International Leo's Forum held in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. San Pedro Lions President Nesher Acosta, Vice-President Lion Rosalyn Tzib, and Club Director Lion Marina Kay proudly represented the island and the Belize Lions Zone 59, to which San Pedro belongs. At the special event, they mingled and shared ideas with Leo and Lion members from Latin America and the Caribbean.

Belizean team represents the Jewel at the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad

For the first time in history, a Chess team from Belize will proudly represent the country at the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad, which will unfold from September 10th through the 23rd in Budapest, Hungary. The team, comprising of Nathaniel Reyes, Alfred Awe, Luis Mendez Jr., and Kenneth Perez, is all set to make a mark. The tournament will host participants from over 190 countries.

Minimum age for legal marriage in Belize to be raised from 16 to 18

At the recent meeting of the Children's Parliament, participants engaged in discussions and debates about the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill. Although initially a simulated session, the bill gained traction and is expected to be presented in a formal parliamentary assembly. The National Commission for Families and Children (NCFC) and Women's Commission have led these efforts and have been facilitating discussions aimed at eradicating child marriages. One of the main proposals is to raise the legal marriage age from 16 to 18.

Matachica Resort donates to the San Pedro Police Formation

On Tuesday, September 3rd, the San Pedro Police Formation received a Lifan motorcycle from Matachicha Resort. The motorcycle will be assigned to the Tourism Police Unit, patrolling the island's northern part. This donation was made possible through a collaboration between the resort and Councilor Jose Castellanos at the San Pedro Town Council.