My Fellow Abaconians (November 15, 2021)

This week of November 15th started in the House of Assembly; my primary and most important job is to represent Central and South Abaco in Parliament.

The Hope Town District Council had a very Productive meeting in Nassau with Minister Halkitis, Inland Revenue, Financial Secretary, myself & others. The Beta program of Property Tax collections with a percentage return for the district was discussed and there can be a mutually beneficial agreement for the District Council to assist in collections. In return, the percentage back would be a great help to do more capital works projects.

It was my pleasure to meet the High Commissioner for Canada. The Bahamas and Canada are family in many ways, including for Education & Tourism. It was encouraging to hear her Excellency speak on growing this relationship and highlighting further partnerships that are possible.

Meeting with the Director of Hotel Licensing and the New Chairman showed me great opportunity to streamline and update the process. Also, the ways we can develop the Vacation Rental segment for these new times. The Chairman, Director and I will be working closely to evolve those products for the benefit of our guests and proprietors alike.

The ALIV CEO, John Gomez, and team visited Abaco; we had a great meeting. The ALIV team is invested in Abaco and a partner in many ways. We spoke on Abaco being the second largest market and Marsh Harbour tower is the most active in the Bahamas. Discussion included improving service in the South, Hope Town, and Moore's Island. Also, they expressed their desire to help Abaco through community projects, we will be speaking further on this and I'm optimistic that they will be a strategic part of our family.

Unfortunately, the first in a series of Town Hall meetings scheduled, Moore's Island, had to be rescheduled due to weather. (New date to be announced)

Central Abaco Town Hall Meeting is scheduled for this Saturday the 27th at 11 o'clock. South Abaco and the Cays Town Hall meetings will be upcoming. It's important that we have these in respective areas so I can confirm needs and be informed of others that are of importance.

The upcoming week is exciting, we will have a few Ministers on Abaco to further our progress. Deputy Prime Minister Cooper is scheduled to spend the day and see some of our challenges first hand.

Please continue to message me with concerns at John@JohnPinderAbaco.com