Chad Bryan, PORTMORE Star Writer

Residents of a section of Portmore known as Phoenix Vista, formerly Portmore Villa Phase 2B, are fuming and are seeking answers from the relevant authorities regarding the establishment of poor-relief houses in the area.

The residents claim that the houses should not have been constructed on the lands which were sold to them by the Housing Agency of Jamaica (HAJ).

The residents also claim that when the HAJ was pitching the sale of the houses, they were told it was only meant for the police, soldiers, and other government workers, and that no board houses were to be established on the lands.

One resident, who requested anonymity, explained: "one house was built over a year now, and two houses are being constructed close to the main road, and I was told that at least 12 more are to go up, but it don't look good. Children are even bathing naked in the road. We had been told that no board structure should go up on the land. For this to be happening is unfair because I have spent millions of dollars on my own house.

She further went on to say, "when we call the Portmore Municipal Council about the problem, they tell us that they don't see where two of the houses are being approved for construction, and I don't understand why they're telling us to write letter."

A high-ranking member of the citizens' association for that area reasoned that construction of the board houses would lead to the devaluation of the land. He added that the community had been constantly plagued by theft of water, light, and the building materials of unfinished properties.

When contacted, Head of Public Relations at the HAJ, Richard Jones, stated: "We have heard talk about this, however, we have seen nothing in writing on the matter from anyone. If there is no specification in writing on the title or restrictive covenant in terms of whether or not wooden or concrete structures are to be built, then nothing can be done about it," he said.

Mayor of Portmore George Lee stated: "Some Food for the Poor houses are being constructed there, and I understand the residents are seeking a meeting with the mayor. The Municipal Council has not taken over the scheme as it needs to be upgraded by the housing authorities. At this moment, nothing is being planned until we take a serious look at this issue."