In this busy season I write to congratulate the Town and Country Division on a their professionalism but more so on their efficiency.It's something the public does not expect to meet when seeking the assistance and services of a governmental organisation. It appears that there is a transformation and I feel when good work is done, it should be recognised and highlighted.
On November 12 I applied to Town and Country for approval to do a renovation of an existing building. I had got all the forms and details of all that was required in early November and on November 12, submitted all that was requested in person.
My file was initially received by Ms Crystal Sam, and then checked by Bruce Charles and Asha Shepherd. After a thorough check, as they said they would not accept the application unless all items were submitted, they said "all was well" and said the entire process should be complete within two months. I thought this to be fair but wondered if it would happen having heard "stories from hell" from many a person.
Knowing things could wane, on December 10, I paid a courtesy call on the Ministry and they advised me of a small amendment I needed to make. I did this on the spot and returned the documents. Thereafter a Ms Vanessa John said she had my file and would be addressing it shortly. Follow-up is always a good thing and can never hurt a situation, so on this day I was glad I did do that.
On Thursday, one week later, to my incredible surprise I was provided with my "Permission to Develop" letter by another helpful staff member, Kerry Pariag. The entire process took five weeks–three weeks less than anticipated.The system works. And it works without pulling any hair or strings and most importantly, without difficulty. All we have to do is, it seems, submit what is requested and submit it accurately.
I like the change! Congratulations!
Sherrard