Deputy Lady Mayor invests VT700, 000 in Freshwota and Tassiriki Roads upgrade

Jun 3, 2024 | News | 0

In a major step towards improving infrastructure in Vanuatu’s capital, Deputy Lady Mayor and Port Vila City Councillor (PVCC), Marie Louise Milne, has spearheaded a transformative project worth VT700,000 aimed at revitalising the road conditions and improving safety in the Freshwota and Tassiriki Wards.

Breaking down the financial strategy, Councillor Milne explained, “Each councillor receives VT98,000 monthly for duty allowances, VT1,000,000 annually for constituency funds, VT500,000 for community funds, and VT98,000 in gratuities, totaling approximately VT2,700,000 per year. Over four years, this aggregates to VT10,800,000. This is the financial pool we’re drawing from for our projects.”

Councillor Milne proudly confirmed, “The project cost is VT700,000,” marking a significant investment in the community’s future. The initiative addresses long-standing issues, with the roads in these areas having been in terrible need of repair for years.

“I am thrilled to assist the youths of 4:12 Law Street in Freshwota 4 with a ton of cement to repair the road. Good roads are essential for service delivery and accessibility,” she said. In addition to the road improvements, Councillor Milne is committed to installing nine solar lights along the same street, prioritising the safety of mothers and children. “As a councillor and Deputy Lady Mayor, it is my duty to ensure no community is left behind. Together, we progress and develop,” she said.

The project, initiated by the residents of Freshwota 4, particularly the youth, began at the end of 2023 and took three months to complete. Councillor Milne praised their efforts, noting, “The youth did all the work. This initiative truly showcases the community’s spirit and dedication.”

Local authorities, including the Vanuatu Police Force’s Crime Prevention Unit, commended the youth’s initiative. Community leaders coordinated the project, and women leaders ensured everyone was well-fed throughout the three-month endeavour.

Councillor Milne stressed the importance of street lighting, saying, “Adequate lighting enhances personal security for pedestrians, wheelchair users, bicyclists, and transit users. Streetlights meaningfully reduce traffic accidents and crime, making them essential for public safety.”

Looking ahead, Councillor Milne has ambitious plans for Freshwota and Tassiriki.

These include a childcare centre for babies aged 8 months to 3 years, a park for children, youth-led care and beautification projects, and comprehensive lighting installations throughout the wards, including the stadium area.

Past achievements such as the Vanuatu Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Rehab Centre in Freshwota 1 and community clean-up programmes in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and PVCC also highlight the ongoing commitment to community betterment.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST

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