Business & Economy
Cost of living still high; basic food items affected
The cost of living continues to be a dilemma for many Belizeans as prices for basic goods have increased nationwide. According to the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB), consumer prices for April were 3.9% compared to last year. Basic staples such as a 16-ounce loaf of bread recently experienced a 20% increase. In San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, the price of bread sold in packs of 17 and 22 ounces remains unchanged; however, other food items have slightly increased due to the cost of transporting goods to the island.
Community and Society
Heavy rains cause flooding for residents in San Pedrito
Over the weekend, heavy rain caused flooding in the San Pedrito subdivision of San Pedro. A resident of a downstairs apartment experienced significant water damage due to overflowing rainwater resulting from blocked drainage. The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC), fully understanding the concerns of many residents about the lack of adequate drainage in the area, is taking immediate action to address the issue.
Community and Society
SPTC improves drainage systems to prevent excessive flooding
As the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season commences, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) urgently prepares for heavy rainfalls and potential flooding. Under the leadership of Ernesto Bardalez, the councilor in charge of Road Works and Infrastructure, the council has initiated a project to clear existing storm drainage systems and open new ones. This proactive approach, which began on Monday, June 17th, aims to keep rainwater away from the streets and prevent potential disasters. Bardalez is developing a strategic plan to clean and clear all drains in town and neighboring areas before a significant storm hits.
Community and Society
Middle Island Neighborhood Watch donates golf cart to San Pedro Police Northern Substation
The San Pedro Police Northern substation received a golf cart on Friday, June 14th, through a partnership with the Middle Island Neighborhood Watch, which secured the valuable donation. Councilor Jose Castellanos at the San Pedro Town Council also played a role in acquiring the golf cart, which is customized for the rugged terrain in northern Ambergris Caye. The vehicle will provide the unit in the north base with additional transportation to enhance and increase their patrols in the area.
Community and Society
San Pedro community celebrates Public Service Day with week-long activities
On June 23rd, Belize will observe the United Nations-sanctioned International Public Service Day. There are a series of activities organized nationwide to celebrate the special day. In San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, the Public Service Day Planning Committee arranged various events, including a church service, health walk, and public service information day. Activities will conclude on Friday, June 21st, with the annual Belize Public Service Awards, held on the island for a second time.
Community and Society
Saga’s new animal shelter to be completed by November
The Saga Humane Society Animal Shelter has been situated on Sea Star Street in Ambergris Caye since 1999. Now, they are building a new headquarters, which has been one of their main goals. The construction is to be completed by the end of November this year. The shelter aims to set a new standard for animal care in San Pedro with their new facility, located at the northern end of Sea Grape Drive, known as the "Fort Dog" location, where rescued and surrendered dogs are currently housed.
Community and Society
First phase of street paving project soon completed; drainage systems next
The streets in Ambergris Caye are seeing many improvements under the management of Mayor Gualberto "Wally" Nuñez and Councilor Ernesto Bardalez, who is in charge of the Road Works and Infrastructure portfolio at the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC). They are determined to improve the community's daily transit with paved roads and the streets in San Pedro. This project is being carried out with the assistance of the Central Government and with the invaluable support and understanding of the community.
Business & Economy
Hol Chan Marine Reserve holds public meeting regarding park fee increase
On Wednesday, June 12th, tour operators and guides from San Pedro and Caye Caulker met to discuss the proposed fee increase at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR) from US$10 to US$20. The attendees acknowledged that operational costs are rising and were open to an increase but requested a detailed analysis justifying the 100% raise. The HCMR management agreed to conduct a thorough study and provide a report to the stakeholders by Wednesday, June 19th, regarding the proposed fee hike to access the marine park.
