Mayor of Montego Bay Councillor Richard Vernon has called for a State of Public Emergency (SOE) to be declared in St James to support post-Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts, citing the need for improved order, security, and control.

Mayor Vernon, who was speaking with JIS News following an Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) meeting at the St James Municipal Corporation on Thursday (October 30), said the situation in the parish remains chaotic, as heavy traffic congestion and increased public movement are slowing restoration work.

“We cannot continue the restoration under these conditions. We need a State of Public Emergency to slow things down a little bit and get our officers in critical positions of restoration, rather than paying attention to traffic,” he emphasised.

Mayor Vernon, who is also the chairman of the St James Municipal Corporation, noted that an SOE would allow emergency and first responders to operate more efficiently and clear blocked roadways without interference. “We need our first responders to carry out their duties and our units to clear roadways without being interrupted by vehicles,” he said.

According to the mayor, St James has incurred losses amounting to billions of dollars, with extensive damage to public infrastructure, private property, and essential services. He is, however, optimistic that the parish can recover.

“But we can turn around. We just need the necessary support… national, regional, international, and community support… to get this done,” he maintained.

Mayor Vernon further noted that the declaration of emergency powers would support the stabilisation of the parish and expedite the restoration of essential services such as electricity, water, and telecommunications.

“I am doubling down on the call for that state of emergency. If it is not yet called, I am calling for it, and if it is called, I am welcoming it, because it is needed now so that we can move forward,” he underscored