Dear Editor,
VROMI needs and must have in its Permits Policy, or even just a very important criteria that all Commercial Development requesting Building Permits be submitted for Approval having, not just proper parking, which is already the case, but also having visible landscaping primarily at the front entrances and roadsides of their properties being developed.
Over the past decades, it has been the trend, because the Ministry of VROMI does not request for its Permits Approval that a very simple Landscaping Plan be submitted, having, for example, probably Palm or Coconut Trees as part of its Infrastructure Beautification and Site Plan Development. That is why, unfortunately, we still see projects being developed, being seen as concrete jungles, while landscaping and planting of trees are still visibly lacking. This all being able to improve the wellness of our nature, well-being, as well as healthy environment.
Permits for dwellings can also be encouraged to all have at least one type of fruit tree that is popularly known to grow in the soils of St. Maarten, and be planted on these Infrastructure developments as well.
The Department of Inspection, by way of supervision, during the construction phase, are able to verify that this would indeed be executed.
These are all ways of encouraging those in agriculture to develop and expand this market of planting as a living, since Government would encourage and promote this as part of a Building Permit Request Package. To start, it can be promoted first at the Weekly COM Press Briefing, and presented, as well as promoted by the Minister of VROMI.
Government must at all times focus primarily on expanding landscaping/ beautification, as well as the planting of fruit trees alongside our main public roads, sidewalks, public buildings, as well as public parks.
We are continuously failing in small, but very important things which may seem insignificant for big development, but beneficial for the overall aesthetic development of our Island for our people and visitors.
Point is, we need to start somewhere. And at times, all it takes is for Government to present and explain its intention and vision as to how we must develop, preserve, beautify, and protect our nature, while enhancing our Island's natural beauty.
The Late and Former Commissioner of Tourism and Economic Development, Dennis Pantophlet, always taught me the effectiveness of the unwritten rule/ policy or law.
Basically, promoting and establishing development trends by just presenting, promoting, and selling your vision to your people by way of our decisive actions, but, of course, leading by example as Government first through very aggressive and constant PR campaigns.
There are many amongst us with an extended background, expertise, knowledge, and wealth of experience, who are willing to pass this on to the next generation that will ask and listen to wise counsel.
That is the generation that is not seeking or competing for a career, because they have already passed that time and season in their lives.
Their heart’s desire is just to pass on the torch to those that will reach out their hands to grab hold of the continuation of their journey and destiny in life for the overall benefit of our country, and in the best interest of our St. Martin People.
Achken Roberto Richardson-IAM
