Canefield Urban Council Act of 1984

The Canefield Urban Council Act of 1984 serves as the legislative framework for establishing and governing the Canefield Urban Council, which oversees the administration and development of the Canefield area. This Act provides the legal foundation for local governance, defining the council’s powers, responsibilities, and structure. It is part of Dominica’s broader local government system, including municipal councils, village councils, and the Kalinago Council.

Structure and Composition of the Council

The Canefield Urban Council consists of eight members, selected through a combination of elections and appointments:

• Five members are elected by residents of the Canefield area.
• Three members are appointed by the Minister responsible for local government.

Each member serves a three-year term, during which they are expected to work towards the improvement and efficient administration of Canefield. The selection process is designed to ensure that community representatives have a voice in governance while allowing government oversight to maintain accountability and strategic planning.

Powers and Responsibilities of the Council

Under the Act, the Canefield Urban Council is granted authority to enact by-laws, manage local services, and oversee community development. Some of its key responsibilities include:

• Regulating activities within Canefield by implementing by-laws that enhance order and development.
• Levying house and land taxes to generate revenue for public infrastructure and community services.
• Managing local markets and business regulations to facilitate trade and economic growth.
• Borrowing funds within specified limits to finance local projects.
• Acquiring land and buildings for public use, such as roads, parks, and community centers.

The council also plays a role in public health and sanitation, ensuring that residents have access to essential services while maintaining clean and habitable living conditions.

Qualifications and Disqualifications for Council Members

To maintain integrity and efficiency, the Act outlines eligibility criteria for those seeking to serve on the council.

Qualifications:

• Must be a citizen of the Commonwealth of Dominica.
• Must be 18 years or older.
• Must have been a resident of Canefield for at least six months prior to nomination.
• Must be a registered voter in the local elections.

Disqualifications:

• Individuals unable to speak, read, or write English.
• Ministers of Religion.
• Individuals holding paid positions within the council.
• Those who have been declared bankrupt.
• Individuals suffering from mental incapacity.
• Anyone with a financial interest in contracts with the council.

These provisions ensure that elected and appointed officials act in the best interests of the community, free from conflicts of interest or external influence.

Role in Dominica’s Local Government System

The Canefield Urban Council is part of Dominica’s structured local government network, which includes:

• Three Municipal Councils – Roseau City Council, Portsmouth Town Council, and Canefield Urban Council.
• The Kalinago Council, representing Dominica’s indigenous Kalinago population.
• Thirty-seven Village Councils, each serving smaller communities across the island.

This network ensures efficient administration at the local level, bridging the gap between citizens and the central government while fostering community engagement and development.

Key Initiatives and Recent Developments

The Canefield Urban Council actively works to improve infrastructure, maintain public spaces, and enforce local laws. In recent years, the council has:

• Launched community projects to enhance roads, drainage, and sanitation services.
• Implemented land and house tax collection measures to increase revenue for development efforts.
• Engaged in legal actions against tax defaulters, ensuring compliance with the Collection of Taxes Ordinance Act.
• Supported educational and social programs, fostering a sense of community responsibility among residents.

Public participation plays an essential role in the council’s operations, with residents encouraged to voice concerns, attend meetings, and contribute to development initiatives.

Impact on the Canefield Community

The Canefield Urban Council Act of 1984 has played a pivotal role in shaping the growth and governance of Canefield. Through the council’s initiatives, Canefield has witnessed improvements in infrastructure, community services, and public administration. By balancing local representation with government oversight, the Act ensures that residents’ needs are met while aligning with national development goals.

As Canefield continues to expand and modernize, the role of the Urban Council remains central to ensuring that development is sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial to all members of the community.