Cabinet Appoints Kem Hodge to Manage Pelican Court as Strict Rules Target Drugs and Noise

A zero-tolerance approach to drug trading and tighter controls on disruptive behaviour will form part of the management of Pelican Court, as the government moves to prevent the newly constructed housing development from becoming a haven for illegal activities and residential disturbances.

Cabinet has appointed Kem Hodge as Facilities Manager of the multimillion-dollar development, placing him at the centre of efforts to maintain order, protect the property and ensure residents enjoy a safe and peaceful living environment.

The appointment was confirmed by Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, Maurice Merchant, during Friday’s Post-Cabinet Media Briefing.

Merchant described Hodge as an individual familiar to residents of Point and Villa who has been actively involved in the community.

“He has been appointed by Cabinet as the facility manager, and a number of other committees or management teams will be selected to manage the property,” Merchant disclosed.

The appointment comes as preparations advance for former Booby Alley residents and other eligible occupants to take up residence in the newly completed development, which was constructed with EC$50 million in funding from China.

According to Merchant, Cabinet has approved regulations governing the occupation and maintenance of the apartments, with particular attention being given to activities that could undermine the safety, comfort and quality of life of residents.

Among the government's major concerns are illegal drug activities and excessive noise, both of which will be subject to restrictions within the residential complex.

“Certain activities will not be permitted in Pelican Court, and that is trade in drugs and controlled substances,” Merchant stated.

He further indicated that noise levels would be regulated to prevent disturbances and maintain a peaceful atmosphere throughout the development.

The measures reflect the government's intention to establish Pelican Court as a model residential community, where residents are expected to respect established standards of conduct while taking responsibility for their surroundings.

Beyond enforcing occupancy regulations, the management structure will also be responsible for overseeing the general upkeep of the property.

Additional committees or management teams are expected to be selected to assist with the day-to-day administration of the development.

However, details concerning the composition of those committees, the specific enforcement powers of the Facilities Manager and the procedures for addressing violations of the regulations have not yet been disclosed.

Meanwhile, Cabinet has instructed the relevant government agencies to accelerate outstanding administrative arrangements, including property surveys, condominium registration and the transfer of ownership to eligible occupants.

These processes form part of the wider preparations to facilitate the occupation of Pelican Court following its official handover to the government.

The appointment of Hodge and the introduction of residential regulations signal the government's intention to establish a structured management system from the outset, with the long-term maintenance and orderly operation of the development regarded as essential to its success.