Councillors salute Spanish Town mayor, deputy for decade of leadership
Published:Friday | April 15, 2022 | 12:06 AMRuddy Mathison/Gleaner Writer
Spanish Town Mayor Norman Scott and Deputy Mayor Ralston Wilson were yesterday recognised by their colleagues for serving the Old Capital – and St Catherine at large – for a combined 20 years in their respective capacities.
It was clear from the reaction of both men that they had no idea what what was in store when senior councillors Keisha Lewis and Patricia Harris surprised them before the adjournment of Thursday's monthly general meeting of the St Catherine Municipal Corporation, announcing that there was an item under 'Any Other Business' that they needed to discuss.
"Ten years leading this parish is a milestone," said Lewis to the surprise of Scott and his colleagues.
"We note your hard work and achievements over these years," she continued as she began to highlight an extensive list of achievements, including the establishment of the Linstead Transportation Centre, the Tetford cemetery, the renovation of the Spanish Town and Linstead markets, the renovation of the infirmary, the development of the Old Harbour Bay Fishing Village, as well as the opening of a drop-in centre for the homeless in Linstead as major accomplishments by the mayor over his 10-year tenure.
"Mayor, I know that you are a humble little man and you did not expect anything," she concluded before turning the focus to Wilson, who, for 10 years, has supported the mayor, deputising for him on several occasions.
"We want to commend you, Deputy, for the work that you have done, the hours that you put in to ensure that the business of the council is taken care of, that the cheques are signed and everybody is on par," Lewis noted.
Harris presented plaques and gift baskets to both gentlemen, who were elected on People's National Party (PNP) tickets.
Minority Leader Lloyd Grant, who leads the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) caucus in the municipal corporation, congratulated his colleague councillors, hailing the mayor as his friend.
"You are my friend, but you know there is a time when things don't go right and I have to speak out. You are a demanding mayor, and at times, I have to step on your toes, but congratulations to you and the team around you on your 10-year anniversary," said Grant.
In his response, Mayor Scott acknowledged the overwhelming support he has received from both sides of the aisle.
"We have had good times and bad times," he said. "One of my hallmarks of leading this council over the 10 years is when elections are called, we go out and campaign vigorously on behalf of our parties, but when they are over and we enter the chamber, we are no longer a PNP councillor or JLP councillor," Scott said as he thanked his colleagues.