The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

It doesn’t take a village; it takes a country.

Post Hurricane Dorian, Abaco remains primarily independent of government aid, yet resilient individuals are committed to progress despite the irreplaceable losses and traumas that still linger in the shadows. Added to this challenging circumstance are the daily, ‘in your face’ reminders of catastrophic remnants such as shells of buildings, heavy equipment, cars, and other debris dotting nearly every block and specific places where death took its cruel toll. It has been years since Hurricane Dorian wreaked havoc; these now decrepit structures beg for swift attention even though taxation has resumed with another blow: VAT for all.

Meanwhile, the faithful, ever-returning visitors need to see more improvements not reminders of what happened over four years ago! Otherwise, “Welcome to Abaco! Have a great vacation” will become depressing and old. The negative impact of dilapidated buildings in city tourist centres diminishes the welcoming and vibrant experience that new and repeat tourists seek.

Yet, still, there is pride. Locals press on within our reviving commerce sector at the heart of our Abaco islands because their futures matter. However, most locals empathize with the financial constraints and personal struggles that may render property owners helpless to deal with their distressed properties. But those with ample means also seem helpless, opting against rejuvenating their unsightly homes or offices because of the instability of waiting for the economic conditions to warrant the expenditure. Despite the many different situations, the conscious neglect of our government on the number of derelict buildings now demands urgent attention under the law. Derelict facilities are hazardous, breed vermin, damage the water table, and must be condemned for removal. Their disintegration further adds to the clogging of drainage systems, now causing widespread flooding issues.

But as Abaconians press forward with a commitment to enhancing our communities, it demonstrates personal pride, respect for our neighbours, and appreciation for those working to elevate our island’s economic, social, and environmental standing. ‘Abaco Strong’ is partly about this; other islands identify Abaconians with this catchphrase. Yet, where budgets are concerned, Abaconians remain “out of sight, out of mind” to the point that Nassau spends Abaco taxpayer money mostly elsewhere. The government spent thousands on Christmas decorations in 2023 in Nassau, but none for Abaco. But Abaconians would reject that extravagance anyway. Imagine in the spirit of Christmas if the government had charitably announced that instead, that money could help Abaco’s recovery in a beautification project, planting native species or fixing a few roads... maybe even tearing down a few eyesores? That would be the kind of progress that would help us get out of our residual trauma.

Daphne Degregory Miaoulis

President

Abaco Chamber of Commerce

January 10, 2024