As the Christmas party season approaches, event promoters have been gifted a small reprieve from the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC), which has announced a temporary 20% reduction in fees for structures erected or installed at entertainment events.

This decision is intended to ease financial pressure on promoters and other industry stakeholders between December 2025 and January 2026, as part of measures to support the entertainment sector in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.

Mayor of Kingston, Councillor Andrew Swaby, who made the announcement, explains that the fee reduction is intended to give the industry temporary relief, adding, “This is our way of offering support at this challenging time. We hope it gives the industry some breathing room as they support the recovery process, while sustaining themselves. We also encourage them to continue their relief efforts. Every act of kindness makes a difference, and we believe the reduction will help them keep that spirit of support alive.”

Addressing the KSAMC’s monthly meeting on Tuesday, Councillor Swaby underscored the far‑reaching economic effects of the hurricane whilst emphasising the crucial role of the entertainment industry in sustaining income circulation across the municipality.

“Entertainment and nightlife play a major role in how money moves from hand to hand in our economy. When an event is held, many people, including promoters, selectors, security teams, bar operators, vendors and taxi operators all benefit….The impact spreads right across the municipality. So when the sector slows down, it is not just the big players who lose income, it is also the small man who depends on that weekend hustle,” Swaby said. 

Meanwhile, Councillor Swaby commended members of the entertainment sector for their generous relief efforts in the aftermath of the hurricane, noting, “Each of them has played a meaningful role in helping our people recover.”