Mayor Wagner says CitCo Not Dependent on Central Government

Earlier today, the media caught up with Belize City Mayor, Bernard Wagner at a handing over event at the K.H.M.H.  As you know, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought business to a halt and government coffers are running low. Earlier this week, central government wrote to nine town and city councils in respect of subventions requesting that they cut down operational costs.  City Hall has also deferred and reduced one of it its main income earners, property taxes and written off rental fees so its own cash flow is under severe strain. The Mayor has said the Council was also assisting some families across the City. So when G.O.B. said that they need to cut operational costs, Wagner says it is a good thing that they are not dependent on central government.

Bernard Wagner

Bernard Wagner, Belize City Mayor

“That letter was sent, I believe, Tuesday or Wednesday of this week essentially telling us that you will have to make with what you have. And lucky for us at Belize City Council, we’ve been making with what we have for the past two years so we will just continue along those same lines, making with what we have.   I am thankful that my staff continued to work along with us. We agreed prior to the lockdown that we will take half pay. Those that work essential services continue to get their full pay check. We continue to work along with all resources that we have to meet the demands of the city.”