Poor security, leaking roofs and insanitary conditions at the Bourda Market are just some of the reasons why its vendors are refusing to pay what they are calling “unfair” increases on stall rentals.

Vendors presented their case to Deputy Mayor Robert Williams and councillors of the Georgetown municipality, whom they met on Friday at City Hall. The meeting, which saw a large turnout by vendors, focused primarily on discussions relating to increases in stall rents. Vendors said they are reluctant to pay increased rentals for their stalls because of the insanitary conditions under which they are forced to ply their trade.

As they discussed rents and the general development of the business facility at Bourda, stall holders expressed concerns over the refusal of the municipality to address their problems, calling it an unfair move on the part of City Hall to even consider a raise in rents when they are usually only promised development by the Mayor and Councillors that never materialises.

Wazim Azeez, member of the Market Committee, said that all they have been getting are promises from officials of City Hall. Poor security and lighting, lack of potable water, leaking roofs, insanitary lavatory facilities, insufficient parking space, clogged drains and the issue of vagrants living around the market were issues raised by Azeez as he explained the reasons behind the refusal to pay increased rents. According to Azeez, “let us work hand in hand to seek development and gradually we can raise the rent, but definitely not under the present conditions.”

Echoing the sentiments of Azeez, Richard Taylor, holder of stall 63/64, explained that more money for stall rental has proved hard to come by for stallholders in the present global economic downturn.

At the meeting, vendors had also asked that they be allowed to conduct their business from 7 am to 8 pm, as it would better cater for late shoppers. In response to this, Schulder Griffith, Clerk of Markets, had indicated that a time extension on business hours is part of a proposal currently being examined.

In response to complaints raised by the vendors, Williams said that all efforts being made to secure the Bourda Market. He said security cameras will be installed to address the issue of breaking and entering. According to Williams, repairs and maintenance work will commence on June 1.

The Deputy Mayor has said clearly however, that the stall holders must pay the increased rental rates on stalls. According to Williams, this increase represents a five-year programme for maintenance work at the market and stressed to the vendors that no one person will be placed in a position of having to pay more than a 35% increase on the first year.

He said that at present, stallholders are paying per square foot, but added that with the increase, everyone will be at the same level of payment.