By City Insider, NP Special Correspondent

Belize City: Saturday 15th July 2023

Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner is facing criticism and scrutiny as his tenure nears its end. Concerns about uncollected revenues, broken promises, and a potential endorsement by the political party have raised doubts about his performance as mayor. This article examines the claims made by both the mayor and his critics, shedding light on the state of Belize City's finances and the concerns surrounding Wagner's potential re-election.

Financial Challenges and Claims:

Mayor Wagner recently stated that there are millions, if not tens of millions, of dollars in uncollected property taxes owed during his five-year tenure. He blamed this lack of revenue for the city's financial difficulties, which he claims have forced him to resort to measures such as converting public parks into market spaces and introducing parking meters. However, critics argue that the mayor has not fulfilled his promises, as the cost of doing business in Belize City has become unaffordable for small enterprises and street vendors. These critics question the mayor's focus on collecting taxes from struggling entrepreneurs while allowing well-to-do property owners to go unpaid.

CitCo's Financial Performance:

Despite the challenges, Mayor Wagner asserts that the Belize City Council's finances are performing well. He attributes this to the council's strategy of saving during the peak tax collection season to cover the slower months. The mayor claims that careful financial management and maintaining an overdraft facility have allowed the council to meet its obligations, including staff salaries and garbage collection. However, with the lack of specific financial data provided, it remains unclear how well the council's finances are truly performing.

Wagner's Mayoral Bid and Controversy:

As the next municipal elections approach, Mayor Wagner has expressed his desire to run for a third term as mayor. However, he stipulates that he will only run if he receives an endorsement and does not face any contenders. Some insiders suggest that the political party has quietly endorsed him but is waiting to make the announcement at the upcoming convention. Critics, however, highlight Wagner's family connection to Deputy Prime Minister Cordel Hyde, asserting that nepotism and favoritism may be at play.

Conclusion:

The upcoming municipal elections in Belize City have raised questions about Mayor Bernard Wagner's performance and his bid for re-election. While Wagner claims that the city's finances are stable and he has projects in the pipeline, critics argue that he has not fulfilled his promises and has imposed burdensome taxes on struggling businesses. The lack of transparency in the council's financial reports and the potential endorsement controversy further add to the skepticism surrounding Wagner's candidacy. As the citizens of Belize City prepare to cast their votes, it is crucial for them to be informed about the issues and evaluate the mayor's track record before making their decision.