Government not being transparent
published: Sunday | August 21, 2005

CUMMING

Dear Editor:

THE RECENTLY-reported news item about the KSAC giving first preference to the Ministry of Local Government, Community Development & Sport to purchase the mayor's official residence on Argyle Road for $22.5 million leaves some of us in the real estate industry in a state of shock and bewilderment.

It is incredulous that this highly desirable 0.65 hectare (1.6 acre) property is being sold to another government entity at such a 'bargain basement' price. Plus, the ministry is being given generous terms of six months to take up the offer before March 2006.

Although Mayor Desmond McKenzie stated that "the sale price was arrived at after a valuation," why wasn't the property put on the open market and all qualified offers considered? That would be a better indicator of market price and in the best interest of the Jamaican people. These back-door dealings must cease.

If the Ministry of Local Government really wants to get value for their $22.5m, I have suitable property in downtown Kingston for sale.

DEBORAH CUMMING

Broker

CENTURY 21

Heave-Ho Properties