Governor Ajamu Baly and his wife arrive at Parliament for the opening of the 2026-2027 Parliamentary Year on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
PHILIPSBURG--The Government plans to establish a Waste Authority responsible for solid waste and wastewater as part of a new comprehensive Waste Management Ordinance, while continuing work toward the closure and rehabilitation of the landfill.
Prime Minister Luc Mercelina, President of Parliament Sarah Wescot-Williams and Finance Minister Marinka Gumbs.
Governor Ajamu Baly outlined the plans on Monday during the opening of the new parliamentary year, when he presented the government’s priorities, vision and legislative agenda.
The proposed Waste Management Ordinance will establish a modern legislative framework for solid waste management, wastewater management and the establishment and regulation of the Waste Authority.
The government and Trust Fund partners have already agreed on the legal basis for the Waste Authority. At the same time, the extension of the Emergency Debris Management Project through 2033 is expected to provide an opportunity to complete the closure and rehabilitation of the landfill in accordance with international environmental, health and safety standards.
The measures are intended to contribute to cleaner neighbourhoods, improved environmental and public health, more sustainable waste management and a healthier living environment for residents and visitors.
Baly said economic and population growth continue to put pressure on land, roads, drainage, utilities, public services and the natural environment.
The government’s approach is therefore intended to balance development with spatial planning, environmental protection, climate resilience and quality of life.
Climate resilience remains another major priority. The government has launched the Climate Impact Atlas, developed local climate scenarios for 2050 through 2100, advanced the National Climate Change Adaptation framework and continued flood-mitigation initiatives.
Planning is also progressing for ecologically sensitive zones and a countrywide zoning plan.
Infrastructure priorities include stabilising sewer pumping stations, drainage and water-management planning, island-wide road assessments and introducing quality standards in support of a Road Fund.
The National Housing Policy has been completed and presented, providing a framework for affordable and social housing, middle-income opportunities, improved spatial development and the integration of housing needs into long-term planning.
Work is also continuing on the Mortgage Guarantee Fund. The government is also working on plans to address traffic congestion in collaboration with the northern side of the island.
The legislative agenda additionally includes Land Issuance and Land Pricing policies, an Administrative Enforcement Framework, legislative support for implementation of an updated Building Code, and amendments to the Nature Ordinance.
The government also plans a Nature Policy Plan and related legislation supporting biodiversity
protection, protected areas and sustainable use of the country’s natural resources.
