BARBERS and hairdressers who ply their trade at the Merriman Mall will be given another chance to remain there if City councillors agree to Mayor Patricia Chase-Green’s request to review the eviction notice.

The vendors were given a notice to remove from the area by July 31, 2017 but 30 sellers signed a petition to have the decision reviewed by the Mayor and City Councillors (M&CC).

Green, who accused the vendors of fabricating names, still adhered to their request and agreed to present the proposal to the councillors at a statutory meeting on Monday.

During a discussion with vendors on Friday, the mayor said the “untidy” condition of the area where they occupy is unacceptable and disrespectful to the M&CC.

“Ropes, garbage and all sort of filth are there,” said Chase-Green, adding she is suspicious about the number of persons who signed the petition.

The mayor pointed out that during many visits, only 13-15 persons were seen operating at the mall.

Many residents of Church Street and commuters also complained about the condition of that section of the Merriman’s Mall.

If the councillors give their consent to the proposal, vendors were implored to fix their stands and keep the area clean or be removed.

Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence was also approached by the mayor to provide guidance on the matter.

“When that section is nasty, it makes the entire mall look unsightly… so you cannot make a petition to the Council when you continuously have the place in an unacceptable condition,” lamented Green.

Vendors were further advised that with those conditions, even the customers would not be inclined to utilise the services they offer.

In addition, many stallholders were accused of leaving their stall filthy and occupying another space on Regent, Wellington and other streets around Georgetown. These vendors were informed that if they continue, the spot will no longer be theirs.

Persons who consistently utilise the spot will be represented at the upcoming statutory meeting, while the others who “disrespect” the Council will have to find another area to ply their trade. They were however told that no spots will be taken until the Council makes a final decision.

INCREASE IN RENT
Although they stand a chance of regaining their spot, vendors were told that the rent of $1,500 per week will be increased because of increased maintenance cost.
They were also told that they will have to pay for their own electricity and water.

“We can’t afford to keep treating you like babies… so some of the responsibilities will have to be taken on by you guys,” she said.

Stallholder agreed to all the conditions of the mayor but they pointed out that they are not the only ones who contribute to the litter in the area.

Some of them said vagrants and even regular individuals who visit the area “make a mess” but because they are the ones who sell there, they face all the blame.
Added to that, their cabins are broken into during the night and their equipment are stolen.

“We need more security,” said one of the vendors who called on the M&CC to visit the area more often before making a judgment.