The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has endorsed a decision by the Kingstown Board to stay previously announced removal actions against street vendors, opting instead to initiate a public consultation to reshape the capital city. Minister of Local Government and Labour, Hon. Laverne Gibson-Velox, assured vendors and the public that the administration is actively addressing the complex issues surrounding street vending in Kingstown.
Acknowledging that street vending is a sensitive topic in Kingstown as well as across the wider Caribbean region, Gibson-Velox emphasized that governments must strike a workable balance between competing factors of public interest. Vending serves vital social and economic purposes by securing a livelihood for sellers and offering quick, convenient purchasing options for buyers.
At the same time, the Minister acknowledged strong public opinions regarding vending, noting that many view it as an unwelcome nuisance that ought to be removed or prevented.
Significant public funds were previously invested to build three dedicated market locations in Kingstown to accommodate vendors. However, Gibson-Velox pointed out that these facilities remain only partially utilized, demonstrating that many vendors do not consider them suitable for their intended purpose.
Against this backdrop, the government is facilitating a public engagement process focused on the overall re-imagining of Kingstown.
The initiative aims to uplift the overall conditions, appearance, and operations of the capital city. Citizens across St. Vincent and the Grenadines are being urged to submit ideas and suggestions directly to the Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Urban Development.
Public submissions will be presented for discussion with Minister Andrew John, whose team is currently formulating a beautification plan for parts of Kingstown. Gibson-Velox emphasized that citizens, as key stakeholders, should have a direct voice in reaching an amicable solution to enhance the aesthetic value of the “City of Arches”.
