On June 6, 2025, JIS News delivered a comprehensive report detailing a series of significant developments across Jamaica. From social housing initiatives to crucial climate resilience efforts, the news covered a spectrum of issues impacting the nation.
Housing and Community Development
A poignant story of resilience took center stage as JIS News reported on the progress of a displaced family from Kingston Central. In 2021, a fire ravaged their home, leaving a family of 13 displaced. Within the next six months, this family is slated to move into a new, multi-family residence. The contract signing and groundbreaking ceremony for this crucial project were attended by Prime Minister Andrew Holness, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing housing needs. This initiative is part of the government’s ambitious new social housing program, a direct response to the family’s previous displacement. The new residence, a significant upgrade from their previous dwelling, will replace the home destroyed by arson, offering a fresh start and a secure future. The total cost of the project is estimated at J$58.86 million, a substantial investment in the community’s well-being. The development will comprise seven apartment-style units, designed to provide comfortable and safe living spaces for the family.
Further demonstrating the government’s dedication to housing, Prime Minister Holness also presided over the handover of newly constructed homes in St. Catherine and Clarendon. This further expansion of housing efforts highlights the ongoing efforts to address the housing deficit across the island, providing tangible solutions to the community.
Disaster Preparedness and Hurricane Season
In preparation for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development will be distributing additional hurricane straps. This proactive measure aims to bolster the structural integrity of homes and buildings, ensuring greater resilience against the potential impact of hurricanes and tropical storms. The distribution of these essential materials demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property during the hurricane season and reflects an important investment in community safety.
Tax Administration and Enforcement
The Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) announced upcoming property tax enforcement operations. These operations will be conducted in Portmore and Spanish Town, focusing on ensuring compliance and efficient tax collection. Property owners in Portmore can expect enforcement activities from June 6 to 8, while residents of Spanish Town will be subject to the same from June 27 to 29. These efforts underscore the government’s dedication to maintaining a robust and equitable tax system, providing essential resources for public services and infrastructure development.
Climate Resilience and Sustainability
JIS News also covered a major symposium dedicated to climate resilience and sustainable solutions. The symposium provided a crucial platform for stakeholders to discuss strategies and approaches to mitigate the impacts of climate change. A key focus of the symposium was the fight against plastic waste in Jamaica. The participants acknowledged the urgency of addressing the issue of pollution and environmental degradation through the promotion of sustainable practices. The symposium served as a critical forum for exchanging ideas and charting a course toward a more sustainable future for Jamaica. The solutions discussed are intended to encourage innovative environmental policy and community actions across the nation.