COCI addresses unauthorized container on Pelican Park Property

GREAT BAY--In an effort to protect public health and environment, the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry, COCI, has moved swiftly to address an unauthorised container that was placed on the Pelican Park property without the knowledge or permission of the Chamber, after reports indicated that the container contained spoiled meat and was emitting a strong and offensive odour.

COCI first became aware of the situation through reports circulating on social media, which raised concern about the condition of the container and the potential public health and environmental impact on the surrounding area.

Upon learning of the severity of the matter, the Chamber acted immediately to ensure that the issue was addressed as quickly as possible. The owner of the container was contacted and requested to take responsibility for the removal of the container and the cleanup of the affected area.

While efforts were made to have the responsible party resolve the situation, the Chamber ultimately took it upon itself to ensure that the area was properly cleaned and sanitised in the interest of protecting public health, preserving the environment, and maintaining the integrity of the Pelican Park property.

COCI wishes to make it unequivocally clear that it will be enforcing stricter measures regarding the use of its property. Effective immediately, any containers, equipment, vehicles, materials, or other items placed on the Pelican Park property without the express authorisation of the Chamber will be subject to immediate removal at the owner’s expense, where applicable.

The Chamber also reminds the public that no individual, business, organisation, or third party has the authority to grant permission for the placement of any object on Pelican Park property. Only the Sint Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry may authorise the use of its property.

COCI remains committed to maintaining a safe, clean, and orderly environment for the business community and the public, and appreciates the cooperation of all stakeholders in respecting these requirements.

Pelican Park is a development initiative of the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry, COCI, envisioned as St. Maarten’s first Economic Service Center. The project is planned for Walter Nisbeth Road, Pondfill Road, at the location of the former Air Lekkerbek Restaurant, and has been described as a professional office park intended to support entrepreneurship, business services and economic activity in the Philipsburg area. COCI received the building permit for the project in August 2022, with plans for the development to include space for the Chamber, a Business Support Center, independent offices, rental spaces for entrepreneurs and food and beverage facilities.