Community and Society
SPTC reminds residents to practice proper garbage disposal
The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) emphasizes the importance of maintaining Ambergris Caye's cleanliness. This is not just the council's responsibility but a collective duty of all residents to preserve the island's appeal as a tourist destination and ensure the welfare of the local community. The SPTC staff has observed a notable increase in the accumulation of improperly disposed trash within the town limits, especially in residential areas. The council urgently appeals to residents to fulfill their responsibility by properly bagging and disposing of all waste.
Community and Society
Belize Port Authority Hosts Maritime Summer Camp
The Belize Port Authority (BPA) hosted a week-long summer camp for the youth of Ambergris Caye from August 5th to August 9th. The camp took place at San Pedro Lions Den and attracted 28 children. The program aimed to involve the campers in enriching maritime experiences and provide them with insight into the BPA's daily activities.
Community and Society
Iconic Jaguar’s Temple Nightclub demolished
The iconic Jaguar’s Temple Nightclub, a cornerstone of the local nightlife, has entered its final chapter. The demolition of the building, which began on July 31, 2024, is a significant moment for the community. Initially built as a movie theater, the building transformed into one of the island's most popular attractions for party seekers, thanks to the support of local patrons and the interest of tourists. After decades in operation, the nightclub closed down in 2023.
Community and Society
Installation for San Pedro Gas Turbine moved to end of August
Despite the reduced planned power outages for San Pedro, Ambergris Caye by Belize Electricity Limited (BEL), the power supply remains unstable across the country. To avoid a power crisis on Ambergris Caye, BEL planned to install a mobile gas turbine by mid-June to bolster the power supply of the fast-growing island municipality. However, this plan encountered some setbacks due to the failure of one of the transformers connecting the gas turbine to the national grid. As a result, residents are informed that there will be a delay in getting the gas turbine online. The new expected timeline for the completion of the gas turbine installation is now at the end of August.
Community and Society
Everette Anderson recognized with esteemed Lions Club’s Melvin Jones Award
The San Pedro Lions Club is proud of one of its members, former President Lion Everette Anderson, for receiving the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellow/Award. The award, named after Melvin Jones, the founder of the international organization, recognizes outstanding individuals embodying humanitarian ideas consistent with the nature and purpose of Lionism.
Community and Society
GOB works to improve the lives of the disabled and elderly in Belize
The Disabilities Bill 2024, a significant milestone in the Belizean legislative history, is advancing towards full parliamentary approval from the Belize government. This bill underscores the government's unwavering commitment to recognizing and safeguarding the rights of all Belizeans, regardless of disabilities or age. The Government of Belize has demonstrated a robust dedication to establishing a comprehensive legal framework to support individuals with various frailties, including physical, intellectual, and sensory impairments.
Community and Society
Belize commemorates Emancipation Day
On Thursday, August 1, 2024, Belize observes Emancipation Day, which commemorates the liberation of our enslaved African ancestors. It is a day of remembrance and celebration, honoring the resilience and strength of those who endured the hardships of slavery. The arrival of the first enslaved people from Africa in 1838 marked the beginning of a difficult era of forced labor on European plantations and mines across the Caribbean islands. This year marks the fourth year Belize has joined other Caribbean islands in celebrating this historic day.
Community and Society
SPTC working to restrict large trucks and trailers from downtown San Pedro
The issue of large trucks in downtown San Pedro Town may soon be resolved through a policy developed by the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC). If successful, this policy will prohibit large sand/dump trucks from traveling through downtown and require them to be transported by barge. Additionally, no trailers over 20 feet long will be permitted in the town core area. The SPTC aims to proceed with these plans following discussions with their administration in the coming week.