Island Council Welcomes Island Governor Levenstone and Address Various Concerns for Saba

The Bottom, Saba — August 27, 2026 — The Island Council held its first Central Committee and Public Island Council meeting with Island Governor Jocelyn Levenstone, who reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of Saba and acting in the island’s best interests.

Council members welcomed the Island Governor and expressed their commitment to a constructive and productive working relationship. During the meetings, the Island Council discussed several important matters affecting the island, including hurricane preparedness, air connectivity, water supply, infrastructure projects, trail maintenance, and fiber connectivity.

Hurricane Preparedness

Saba’s 10 Emergency Support Functions remain active, with regular coordination and operational checks. The Sunny Valley Youth Center and Child Focus continue to serve as the designated emergency shelters. Residents will continue to receive hurricane-related information through official government communication channels.

Air Connectivity

Discussions continue on establishing a Public Service Obligation (PSO) for air travel. Funding has not yet been secured, and discussions with the relevant ministries are ongoing. The Island Council emphasized the importance of affordable and reliable air connectivity for Saba’s residents.

Water Supply

Prolonged dry conditions continue to place pressure on Saba’s water supply. The government’s reverse osmosis plant is operational following recent technical issues. Work with Aquasab is expected to increase production capacity from approximately 7 to 14 cubic metres per hour, strengthening the island’s water resilience. Residents are encouraged to continue conserving water.

Black Rocks Harbor

Progress continues on the Black Rocks Harbor project. The breakwater is advancing, rock production is ongoing, and the first Xblocs have arrived on Saba. A silt curtain is also being installed to help protect coral during construction.

Parking, Trails and Fiber Connectivity

Plans for a new parking area in The Bottom, providing approximately 20 spaces, have been finalized, with a public tender expected shortly.

The Island Council also raised concerns about overgrown and deteriorating trails and will follow up with the Saba Conservation Foundation regarding maintenance and trail closures associated with the tower project.

Fiber internet installation is substantially complete, with only four addresses remaining unconnected by choice. The Executive Council confirmed that there is no remaining coverage gap. However, some users have noted that the stability and reliability of the internet service could still be improved, and this may warrant continued monitoring and attention.

Second Budget Amendment Approved

The Central Committee discussed Island Council Proposal 2026.5, concerning the Second Budget Amendment and Second Quarter Implementation Report for 2026. Commissioner of Finance Bruce Zagers presented the proposal on behalf of the Finance Department.

The amendment mainly incorporates special-purpose grants into the regular budget and makes minor adjustments based on actual spending. No significant policy changes are proposed. Committee for Financial Supervision (CFT) reviewed and approved the amendment.

Island Council members commended the Finance Department and Commissioner Zagers for improvements in financial management and reporting. The Island Council also discussed several local levies, noting that some related ordinances date back to the Netherlands Antilles and require modernization.

Proposal 2026.5 was designated as a hammer piece and subsequently adopted, including the Second Budget Amendment and Second Implementation Report for 2026.