Community and Society
Caye Caulker Pushes for Local Marijuana Legalization Referendum Ahead of June Elections
Residents of Caye Caulker have launched a petition urging the government to legalize and regulate marijuana exclusively on the island through a local referendum. The initiative, led by Caye Caulker Village Councillor Ilya Rosado, aims to collect 400 signatures from registered voters to place the question on the ballot during the Village Council elections on June 29, 2025.
Community and Society
San Pedro Fire Station Receives Two Brand New Water Pumps
The fire station on the island, found on Pescador Drive next to the police station, has received two brand new portable water pumps, courtesy of Senator Gabriel Zetina. The young senator, representing the United Democratic Party, shared that he is committed to aiding his island community and contributing to the improvement of essential services, such as the local fire service.
Community and Society
BEL Hosts Media Workshop to Highlight 2025 Energy Plans and Smart Investments
Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) hosted a Media Energy Workshop on May 15th at its Corporate Headquarters in Belize City, aiming to deepen the media’s understanding of Belize’s evolving energy landscape. The event brought together media professionals nationwide to discuss BEL’s 2025 Annual Review Proceeding (ARP) submission and the company’s strategic investments in modern energy infrastructure.
Community and Society
Letter to the Editor: Special Thanks for a Successful May 3rd Blood Drive
The San Pedro Community Blood Drive Group wishes to thank all those who came to donate blood at the blood drive held May 3rd at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II. Over 50 members of the Ambergris Caye community came to donate. At the end of the day, 41 pints of life-saving blood were generously donated.
Community and Society
San Pedro Town Council installs Environmental and Social Management officer
San Pedro Town is making significant progress in environmental management and sustainable development with the appointment of a dedicated Environmental and Social Management (EMS) officer at the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC). This initiative coincides with the island's launch of ambitious projects funded by international financial institutions (IFIs), with the goal of balancing growth with responsible stewardship of its unique coastal environment.
Community and Society
Belize Set to Roll Out Redesigned Banknotes with Advanced Security Features
The Central Bank of Belize is set to launch a new series of banknotes by mid-year, featuring a fresh look while retaining the same value. This marks a significant change in both design and security. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming currency changes.
Community and Society
Truck Companies Consider Legal Action Over Downtown San Pedro Restrictions
A group of truck company representatives in San Pedro Town has retained legal counsel following new restrictions imposed by the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC). The restrictions prohibit large and container trucks from traversing the downtown area. The restriction, publicly announced by the SPTC on April 30th, is being challenged as unlawful, arbitrary, and unconstitutional in a letter issued by Belize City-based law firm Elrington and Company.
Community and Society
Hol Chan Marine Reserve Opens Marine Education Center
On Wednesday, May 14th, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve officially opened its new Marine Education Center, located on the ground floor of its headquarters in downtown San Pedro. The long-anticipated event welcomed a diverse group of attendees, including primary school students, representatives from the Belize Tourism Board, tour guides, local leaders, and specially invited guests. The highlight of the event was the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which marked the official opening of the education center to both guests and the public.