KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a move to enhance governance and accountability within the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC), Mayor Andrew Swaby has introduced a newly formed Advisory Committee.
Unlike the existing Local Public Accounts Committee (LPAC), this initiative is designed to proactively support ethical leadership, transparency, and financial oversight within the municipality. The selection process saw input from key stakeholders, including the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce, Citizens’ Right to the City, and the Jamaica Small Business Association.
The committee, comprising ten appointed members along with a chairman and vice chairman, will be further expanded with an additional representative from the community following discussions with the Social Development Commission (SDC). Mayor Swaby confirmed that steps are being taken to integrate community perspectives into the committee’s framework.
“We have ten members, including the chairman and vice chairman, and we are in dialogue with the SDC to identify a community representative,” Swaby stated.
Bridging the Oversight Gap
The establishment of this advisory body comes amid ongoing reviews of the Party Development Committee (PDC), a structure overseen by the SDC. Since 2016, the absence of a dedicated municipal advisory board was linked to the presence of the PDC, which has been under evaluation to ensure its committees are functioning effectively.
“We have not had a similar body because the PDC, which operates within the community structure, was already in place,” Swaby explained. “However, as the SDC conducts an audit of their committees, we felt it necessary to implement an advisory team in the interim.”
The timeline for the committee’s operation remains uncertain, pending the SDC’s full review of its governance structures.
“I can’t say how long this committee will be in place,” Swaby admitted. “The SDC is making progress, but I can’t predict their timeline.”
Scope of Responsibilities
The newly established Advisory Committee will play a crucial role in monitoring financial matters, assessing service standards, and ensuring KSAMC meets its public obligations.
“The committee will oversee various aspects, including our financial responsibilities, service delivery, and how we engage the public,” Swaby said. “For example, our annual budget should involve discussions with Kingston and St Andrew residents, and this body will help facilitate that.”
Additionally, the committee will provide advisory support on audit matters. Should any financial or procedural concerns arise, particularly those flagged by the Auditor General, the committee will be tasked with reviewing and recommending corrective actions.
By instituting this advisory body, KSAMC aims to reinforce transparency and accountability in municipal operations while awaiting further developments from the SDC’s governance review.
