The Tribune

By Natario McKenzie

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

Eleuthera’s economy is currently enjoying “a sense of optimism” rarely felt in recent decades, the island’s Chamber of Commerce president says, while warning: “We are not over the hump.” 

Thomas Sands, who addressed the Eleuthera Business Outlook conference, held at Frigate’s Bar & Grill in Rock Sound, said: “There is a level of interest in Eleuthera as a destination, and a sense of optimism that has not existed for same time. We are not over the hump but we are headed in the right direction.

“Given all that is before us it is clearly time to move on from the small differences that have separated us and begin to figure out how we work together to achieve our greater goals which are mutually beneficial to all.”

Mr Sands said that with millions of dollars worth of investment earmarked for South Eleuthera alone over the next several years through the $250m-$400m Disney Cruise Line project at Lighthouse Point, Eleutherans must plan for success and ways to retain that capital.

“Preparation and global thinking is required as we strive to think outside of the box while also seeking additional opportunities beyond the direct spend on our shores,” Mr Sands added.

He said the Eleuthera Chamber, with 40 members, is exploring the development of a self-sustaining business platform where “we can share resources and infrastructure required instead of having to absorb all of the cost on our own”.