Clarendon Municipal Corporation secures land for long-awaited pound for stray animals

Mayor of May Pen, Councillor Joel Williams, says steps have been taken by the municipal corporation to address the growing issue of stray animals roaming the streets of Clarendon, with efforts under way to establish an animal pound.

Speaking at the corporation’s monthly meeting on Thursday, Williams announced that the corporation had received approval from Sugar Company of Jamaica (SCJ) Holdings Limited to utilise lands owned by the entity for the establishment of the long-awaited animal pound.

“I am happy to report that SCJ has agreed to allow the Corporation to utilise these lands to house a proper animal pound, which will serve Clarendon and neighbouring parishes,” Williams said.

The absence of a structured facility to house stray and impounded animals has long posed challenges for municipal authorities, particularly as unmonitored animals continue to impact traffic safety, public sanitation, and overall community order across the parish.

Across several town centres, stray dogs, goats, and other livestock are frequently seen roaming roadways and public spaces, at times creating hazards for motorists and pedestrians.

In residential communities such as Hummingbird Meadows and Longville Park, residents have, in recent times, raised alarms about stray animals encroaching on private properties and causing damage.

Williams said the initiative is expected to significantly improve public health outcomes by addressing the issue of unmonitored animals, while also strengthening the parish’s capacity to enforce regulations governing animal control and welfare.

“This is a timely and necessary initiative that will restore a greater sense of safety by addressing the issue of unmonitored animals, improve public health conditions, and create additional employment opportunities for our residents,” the mayor said.

He added that the municipal corporation will continue to collaborate with key stakeholders to ensure the facility is properly established and managed, as part of its broader thrust towards creating safer, more orderly communities across Clarendon.

- Olivia Brown

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