Freeport, Grand Bahama Island: Newly elected city councillors, accompanied by City Administrator, Alexander Williams, paid a courtesy call on officials of The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) recently. Warmly welcoming the group were GBPA President, Ian Rolle; Chief Financial Officer, Deann Seymour; and GBPA’s Business Development Manager, Derek Newbold.
In congratulating them on a job well done, Rolle stated that it was important for both parties to become better acquainted with each other, so as to forge immediate relationships with regards to servicing the needs of local citizens. “It is good for us to get together so that we can understand how our various functions might be interrelated and how GBPA can help you to achieve your goals,” Rolle said.
City Administrator Williams uttered similar sentiments as he reflected on the harmonious relationship that has existed between GBPA and the Freeport City Council over the years. He expressed his hope that GBPA would continue regular quarterly discussions with the Council as had been established way back by previous administrations.
“In all we do,” Administrator Williams stressed, “we must recognize a fundamental principle that these persons represent the voices of the masses of the people, and they’re here to share with GBPA and central government what the people are crying for.”
Chief Councillor for the City of Freeport District Council, Chervita Campbell briefly outlined some key initiatives and immediate concerns including street lighting, road paving, truancy, fire hydrants, water supply, etc. President Rolle eagerly took note of the issues mentioned and asked for a comprehensive list in advance of their upcoming meetings.
Campbell noted that it was the aim of the new Council to move beyond the fixing, repairing and cleaning of parks. In addition to these responsibilities, “we’ve looked at the social issues in the community and how we can address them,” she shared. Following in the footsteps of central government around the Commonwealth, the recently elected body is keen on developing local economic activities to hopefully thwart unemployment and crime. Existing programmes such as computers, Karate and other after-school activities will also be expanded.
President Rolle pledged GBPA’s commitment to fostering private public partnerships. “I trust that this will be the first of many meetings to come, on a quarterly basis as planned and more frequently if the need arises. This is a new day moving forward, and with these new faces, we look to work together to match the demands of the people and improve the quality of life for persons living here on Grand Bahama,” he added.
