Road deal concerns mount

| 19/02/2013

790.jpg(CNS): Campaigners trying to keep the West Bay Road open have voiced their concern that the imminent closure will set a very dangerous precedent for Cayman and the entire community. Despite the opposition to it, with more than 4000 people signing a petition against the closure, the new government has refused to meet with protestors to review the information they have gathered. While the interim government and the UDP candidates are backing the closure, North Side MLA Ezzard Miller is far from being alone in his political opposition. Along with the PPM candidates, two of the independent candidates in George Town have also voiced their concerns over the value and process of the deal.

The ForCayman Investment Alliance deal is likely to be an important campaign issue, but when contacted by CNS about their position on the issue, many of the independent candidates remained silent. However, Jude Scott, who is runningon the C4C platform in George Town, expressed his concern about the lack of transparency surrounding the deal and the expected closure. 

“Government has failed to provide the necessary transparency to demonstrate to the people of the Cayman Islands that the government has gone through due process, made a proper analysis of value for money, or provided tangible and sustainable benefits to Cayman and Caymanians to support that the transaction is in the best interest of the Country,” Scott said. Saying that it’s too late was unacceptable, he added.

“A good government should at all times understand what exit strategies and remedies are available to it regarding all significant transactions and should never proceed past 'the point of no return' until the government has sufficient evidence to satisfy itself, and can demonstrate to the people of the country, that to proceed is in the best interest of the country,” he said.

For some time now, independent MLAs Ezzard Miller and Arden McLean have been vocal about their significant concerns about the process and the closure. Miller said this week that the size of the road being closed and the importance of the road makes it very different from the usual road closures which were used as illustrations recently by the current Cabinet members. Miller has stated that after the May election he will do all he can to overturn the NRA deal with Dart and re-open the road as he believes the agreement is not legally binding.

Although a former member of the UDP, the party that orchestrated the deal, Matthew Leslie, who has announced his intention to now run as an independent in George Town, said he did not believe the deal provided good value for money either, pointing to some questionable issues surrounding the FCIA.

“The fact that the people were misled on the actual length of road being given up is of concern to me,” he said, adding that it made sense for Dart as the highway extension was is in the interests of their development but he believed it could have been accomplished without sacrificing the beach land.

Leslie said government had been “too quick to jump” at any offer that came its way. He said, “There must come a point where government must ask, 'Is this good for the people? I only hope that Dart will show good faith in allowing this land that went from being crown property to now being 'corporate property' to be used for the good of the people as promised,” he said.

Meanwhile, both of the PPM candidates running in West Bay said their party position was that there needs to be two roads running from the district, not least because of its significance to the tourism product. Woody DaCosta pointed to the days when traveling to and from West Bay took at least one hour, which was behind the former PPM administration’s move to start the Esterley Tibbetts Highway.

“The Progressives maintain that this second thoroughfare laid the foundation for the new tourism products that came online, such as but not limited to the Dolphin Attractions and Camana Bay, and now a marked increase in stay over tourism in almost one decade,” DaCosta said, noting that visitors do not like traffic jams. “This closure takes us back several steps,” he said, warning that "the Bridge" will become a bottle neck.

“The simple fact is that the UDP government failed on all fronts to adequately and satisfactorily negotiate an agreement that offers the people of the Cayman Islands equally long term benefits as it does Dart Realty and the Progressives have questioned the legality and validity of such an agreement,” he added.

DaCosta’s West Bay PPM running mate, Ray Farrington, said he failed to see the need to close any of the road.

“With the intended speed limit reduction and the installation of traffic calming measures to automatically enforce thelimit, the entire 'old' road would become the visitor friendly, safer thoroughfare our tourist product needs,” he said. “Future beautification would only make it more pleasant, enhance the use of all of the beach area amenities and promote other future developments. I fail to see how this scenario prevents or detracts from any proposed development. Once a section is closed, we lose this opportunity forever.”

Farrington also raised concerns that the public has not seen the details of the arrangement before what could be irreversible action is taken.

Paul Rivers, one of the main activists in the campaign to keep the road open, said that the various groups opposing the closure are meeting to coordinate their next move in the face of the imminent closure.

“We are very disappointed that the new government has been unable or unwilling to renegotiate this very mysterious and questionable deal,” he said, adding that the Cabinet members have refused to meet with the protest groups. “This is a very serious precedent that is being set. If this closure goes through, then there is nothing that cannot be taken from the Caymanian people.”

Rivers accused Dart of “blatantly” disregarding the views of a significant number of people affected by what the activists refer to as a “steal” and not a deal.

“Money talks and roads get closed, thanks entirely to the UDP and all who support them.  With the closure of this section of the road, it’s a dark indictment on the government’s lack of foresight for the safety of the West Bay people, should an accident or natural disaster make that one exit from the district impassable. One way in, one way out … over a bridge that is not impervious,” he warned. “We will continue to speak out about this and future initiatives by the Dart Group as we scrutinize every deal to ensure that Caymanians and our country are not taken advantage of once again.”

However, he said it wasn’t just the campaigners that had to keep speaking out; the Cayman people need to wake up and educate themselves on every deal that affects the country. “We cannot be so complacent to think that our government or especially the developers are here for our betterment and future,” he added.

Len Layman, another member of the campaign, raised his continued fears that the rush to close the road before the people see the results of the independent review, illustrate how poor the deal really is.

“They know the longer they put it off the more likely the truth will come out and the people will see how much Dart benefits and the people lose,” he said. “They feel they need to get it closed now or lose the ‘steal’. If they were comfortable that what they are doing is correct they would not have to push it through like this.”

Meanwhile, Alice Mae Coe, a leader of the Truly4Cayman group, said that the minority government was not being 'transparent', as they claim. “It is crystal clear that they are following the same agenda as their predecessor, who loudly stated in a public meeting promoting and supporting the whole FCIA package deal as far back as August/Sept 2011 that,'The road is going to be closed, you're not going to stop it!' she said, referring to comments made by McKeeva Bush, the former premier.

The minority government of former UDP members is still backing the Dart deal and has stated that the first part of the proposed section of the West Bay Road which it has swapped with Dart as part of the ForCayman Investment Alliance will close in a matter of days but no date has yet been given. The rest of the road is expected to close in the next few weeks as Dart continues work on the new section of the Esterley Tibbetts by-pass, including the bridge.

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  1. Anonymous says:

    Funny how a comment from someone hiding behind an anonymous ID can stir up so much hostility among so many people. Unless this person is willing to say who he is publically I would give much credence to his remarks. If this was someone representing the Dart Group and they find out who he is you can believe he will quickly removed.

    Please do not believe that all foreigners living here belittle Caymanians, lots of us like myself have plenty of respect for you all after all we are looking to have the type of lifestyle that you were fortunate enough to be born into, that is why we are here.

    I for one like the new design for the Pubic beach area not because of any allegiance to Dart but just because I think it will be nicer that what’s there now. But I do respect the opinion of folks that are against it for whatever reason they may have. If it stays that same or changes I will still go to Seven Mile Public Beach.

    As far as this so called Dart Employee goes the best thing everyone can do is ignore his hostile and disrespectful comments. This will remove the power and pleasure he has gained by pouring salt in already existing wounds..

    Thank you and God Bless

    • Anonymous says:

      Yeah rright..you are no more than Dart PR. in motion…calling us  "you all" …We are Caymanians, call us that please!

      Stop trying to cover up your messes!

      • Anonymous says:

        To All Caymanians, No Disrespect intended, I am sorry if the words 'you all' was taking the wrong way I respect everyone as gods children..Please except my apologies if my words caused any offense..

    • Anonymous says:

      I did not say I was representing DART merely that the group is my employer and this road is part of our ongoing development projects. Please don't misquote me. My company despite what you think does not hunt down and fire employees because they freely speak their minds. There is such a thing as free speech and I am entitled to mine as you are to yours.

  2. Anonymous says:

    I have been reading the thread beginning with anonymous at 2/19/2013  at  23:51 and I am very surprised that not one of the posters have identified themselves as Caymanians  and defended our very way of life.

    I'm sorry but we as Caymanians have always been welcoming to expats and sure there is going to be some acrimony with over a hundred nations living here but for God's sake don't treat us as trash and outcasts in our own country.

    I am amazed at how may people have given their support to this poster.  Cayman and Caymanians should not now or ever be subjected to that in their own country.

    • Anonymous says:

      I agree with what you say, but as a Caymanian, we need to dial it back a little on the misplaced loyalty to the road.  I really don't associate any thoroughfare as a "Caymanian way of life", a convenience perhaps, but not a way of life.  As far as convenience goes, I look forward to completion and opening of the newer roadways that provide greenspace buffer by the beach.  For me, they will dramatically improve quality of life for all residents and visitors.  I'm sure many Caymanians that own property in West Bay will prosper from these many new multi-lane arterial roadways that are nearing completion.  The NRA has the full blueprints of all of the roadways on their website, if anyone is interested.  These were Gazetted long ago.  For the record, I am not affiliated with DART, any politcial party, or any other interest group, though we do own property in West Bay District, and like I said, we look forward to these new roadways.

      • Anonymous says:

        So you are okay being called "riff raff' and told to stay in your place away from any hotel or beach..That is preprehensible and I am ashamed thatyou represent yourself as Caymanian.

         

        Sorry you are not a Caymanian in my books..maybe by paper? that doesn't count.

        My navel string is buried right here..where is yours from?

        • Anonymous says:

          You are assuming that riff raff meant all Caymanians and not just the riff raff element of Caymanians. There is riff raff in the elements of all nationalities.  I hope you're not going to suggest there is no Caymanian riff raff, and if so, I'd ask you who is in Northward and Fairbanks prisons.

          The point is that riff raff does congregate in  public places and I would point to the number of robberies of tourists in the past year who had been at establishments close by. Do you think that is good for Cayman?

      • Anonymous says:

        What you really mean is that Dart will prosper from the road being built..Ask yourself the question before your right so much foolishness, who owns the land on which the road is being built?..The only so called Caymanian is Dart..Get your facts straight!

         

      • Anonymous says:

        You mean roadway. There will only be one, that is the main problem.

        • Anonymous says:

          No true.

          There will be a split taking one roadway to Batabano Road and another that will be an extension of Reverand Blackmon Drive. That makes two, so roadways is correct. 

          And, as a matter of practicality, this will help traffice going into and from West Bay.

  3. Anonymous says:

    all i want to know is what do Dart know about hotels? was that part of the review that PWC did? or anyone did? i only ask because i dont see camana bay as an amazing success for them, its obvious that they're either already or soon going to have to bail out the struggling businesses in there…what did they know about shopping malls before they built that one? had they missed the bit about population sizes?

    just cause you got the money dont mean you know what your doing…..but it seems here money talks, logic walks…..are dart aware of some amazing, bustling tourist scene that the other hotels are hiding from us all? or is this all based on some fancy report that says if you build it, they will come? because they wont…..they dont…..we already have loads of lovely hotels that are empty 8 months of the year…we dont have a tourist stay-over trade worth talking about….we'll never bebig enouhg to fly jumbo jets in from far away lands like jamaica and bahamas……and the country doesnt want to be that type of desination anyhow

    but hey…you got the money, nobody here is going to stop you messing everything up….its crazy.

    • Anonymous says:

      The road and new hotel is to do two things: force all the traffic past Camana Bay and hurt other hotels that have a good beach like Westin so that he can buy them in bankruptcy court. That would make him the largest hotel owner on Island and give him prime beachfront which the Courtyard site does not have. Why build a new hotel when occupancy rates are less than an average of 65%?

  4. Anonymous says:

    From over the seas he came

    A man to garner much fame

    Bought every plot

    Yes, there were a lot

    And now "Dart" is the only name

  5. Anonymous says:

    The same thing happened when Christopher Columbus "discovered" America. He gave the indians mirrors and trinckets and they gave him gold and jewels in return. this is the same situation here, we are getting a fancy new hotel with beach access and we are losing the worl acclaimed Seven Mile Beach. — Sounds like a fair trade doesnt it! (Sarcasm) 

    • Anonymous says:

      And you ain’t getting a hotel anymore than the native Americans got the Houston space center.

  6. Anonymous says:

    Every great waterfront community has a boardwalk area for running and cycling and recreational pursuits.  It provides a place for safe, low cost, healthy family activities that are sadly lacking on Grand Cayman.  I fully support the development of any healthy and safe places to cycle and jog if that is the plan.  I'd much rather see tree-shaded bike lanes and family recreation areas than the preservation of that small stretch of obsolete beachside freeway.  If that's what we're getting, then thank you Mr Dart.  

    • Anonymous says:

      So you are going to ride your bike from South Sound to cycle on Dart's boardwalk?

  7. Anonymous says:

     

     

    I was born and raised as a Caymanian.

    I have the RIGHT to oppose any deal that my government who represents me chooses to make that is not in the best interest of MY future and that of my children, that was not made in a democratic and transparent procurement process.

    Those people who write comments disregarding the views of almost 20,000 CAYMANIAN'S who are the ones that decide WHO stays here, WHO can work here, and what THEY can do by the government CAYMANIANS’ elect, need to understand this is still OUR island we let YOU come here.

    The "West Bay Road" is a part of OUR heritage; we have the RIGHT to say what happens to it.

    Dart can do what every other EXPAT that PAYS to live here has to do, and BUY what he wants just like every other person living on this island has to, WITHOUT tax breaks, WITHOUT backdoor deals with "bought politicians" and WITHOUT demoralizing the integrity of the native people of this island.

    Maybe the moral of this controversy is "Money can NOT buy you everything," it has yet to buy the native people of this island.

    If you don't like OUR Island the ways it is here, you can buy a ticket and go back home, there is always another EXPAT, willing to take your place, and another to take HIS place for less pay than what you are making now.  I will be here long after your permit expires on THIS Island that’s MY home, along with my children will be here long after Mr. Dart is buried in OUR grave yard.

    • anonymous says:

      This is fun to read aloud, shouting out the all-capital words! 

    • Anonymous says:

      I was born and rasied here in Cayman too.

      I think you will find that many Caymanians were actually born in the USA, or spent a large percentage of their lives in the US only to return to Cayman in the 70's and 80's.

      We all hail from somewhere else, even going back to the very beginging of settlements here in Cayman. So, I would respectfully suggest that the moral fabric of Cayman is an interwoven mix of cultures and nations from other places.

      Your comments are inflamatory and they sound almost racist.

      Please understand that in a modern society if you live, as a honorable citizen of the community and without criminal record you are entitled to become a part of that community/country – as a citizen – as a local.

      Ask yourself if the same attitude that you write in your email would be tolerated in the US, Canada, UK, Europe – in fact any first world nation?

      Also ask yourself if the very road – the West Bay Road – would in fact be there today if it wasn't for foriegn investors coming to the Cayman Islands. Because I can assure you that without investment these islands will quickly revert back to the 1940's when work could only be found overseas and let me say that with an attitude like yours you would find it very hard indeed to get a job. I also thnk that you would be the first person to cry about unfair treatment if you were treated to the same racist sentiment you write about.

      Please become worldly. Travel and meet new and interesting people. Live each day with a positive outlook and be a the best person you can be. Embrace what we have here in Cayman and others to enjoy it too. Together we will all prosper and live harmoniously.

      • Waskly Wabbit says:

        And all dem US-born Caymanians gawn really kik up a fuss when da tax man come fi dem…  

        • Anonymous says:

          Speak English please..

          • Translatrix says:

            As an educated expat, non-US citizen, this was not a comment for you – instead it was written in Caymanian for my fellow cocky Caymanians who tink (think) dey (they're) smart wi (with) dey (their) fancy US passports!!!

            Mossa dem nah realize dem a afi pay taxes if dey got it – Most of them do not realize they have to pay taxes if they have it.

            And (h)uncle Sam is coming for dem (them)…

            • Anonymous says:

              Actually you are incorrect. US Citizens must FILE their taxes. No money is actually lost in tax once you live outside of the US and make under approximately USD $90,000. I should know – because I filel mine every year. Caymanian, but born in the US.

        • Anonymous says:

          The Tax man will be coeing for you soon as well…

    • Anonymous says:

      Whaaaaaaaaaaaaa. Or shoud I say WHAAAAAAAAAAAA?

    • Anonymous says:

      You are classing a piece of tarmac as heritage??? I don't even know where to start with that one.

      Another point to note is that Dart is a Caymanian, not an "expat" so push your xenophobic nonsense elsewhere. He may not have been when he arrived but you can say that about every person on this rock, Caymanian or expat, everyone here has come from somewhere else or has roots based elsewhere.

      All this "protesting" sounds like a bunch of sour grapes because there are no backhanders or brown envelopes being passed around by Dart.

       

      • Anonymous says:

        No brown envelopes? That would shock the shit out of me. Brown Ferraris? That’s more like it.
        You seem to want to forget this is macs deal. Show a little respect eh?

  8. Anonymous says:

    And where is the fearless leader of the PPM on this issue, the same place as the last 3.7 years? I suspect that might be in a bar busy running his mouth rather than actually providing opposition and representing the people. 

    • Anonymous says:

      He plottin' aginst Bigga Mac. No, wait. He plottin' aginst C4C MacMinions. No, wait. He plottin' aginst UDP lite. No wait. He plottin' aginst independents. No wait. He writin' good things about hisself on CNS! Dats why you no see 'em.

  9. Anonymous says:

    The Cayman tourist product was based on Sun, Sea, Sand, and Safety.

     

    Safety is not longer on the table as tourists are getting mugged.

     

    Hotels in Cayman now want to evolve into all inclusive resorts that are easily surrounded by razor wire and guards. This is necessary if they wnat to keep Safety in their tourist product.

     

    This phenonenon is one of the driving forces behind the road closure.

     

    Do not put all the blame on DART, McKeeva, and the UDP. A significant amount of blame lies with the Caymanians who have raised a generation of young gangstah wannabies who are now getting easy cash by mugging tourists. Very sad indeed.

    • Anonymous says:

      A good sounding statement indeed. Any idea how much mugging cash enters the economy each year? $200.00, 350.00? Wow, better let dart have the beach.

      • Anonymous says:

        Each dollar of mugging cash translates to tens of thousands of dollars of negative publicity.

      • Anonymous says:

        Unfortunately, I think the reality is that each mugging might only net the perpetrator a few dollars, but it costs the Caymanian economy a few hundred thousand dollars in lost revenue

        • Anonymous says:

          The poster said the muggers were getting easy cash. I was replying to that overblown statement.

  10. Anonymous says:

    Where is Julie? CNS can you find out what has happened to her please?

  11. Anonymous says:

    As an expat and DART employee, I don't know what the big deal is..You Caymanians should be grateful that we come here, close your little strip of road and bring new development. How many of you actually go to the beach anyway? In any other countries, like the Bahamas and even Jamaica, there are separate areas for the natives to swim and conduct their business away from the hotels, that is what is needed here. Why would I as a tourist want to come to a luxury hotel to have a bunch of natives hassling me on the beach. I want to sit an enjoy my glass of champagne and be left alone. This is not about being prejudice, this is about being reasonable and how can you blame my employer for this. Certain standards need to be kept.

    This island would be a sh#t hole without DART.  I know the natives will hit me with the thumbs down but who cares. Just like everyone else that is on here, I will remain anonymous and am entitled to my free speech. Without us expats like us this place would be dead right now.

    Want to do something else?, lower your prices so I don't have to spend so much money on American Airlines tickets to Miami to buy everything. Better yet, chuck you crappy airline so that prices will go down an it will be cheaper for me to fly when I want.

    Kudos to those Caymanians who see the light and want the road closed. You will get your public beach fixed up so that you can finally come out and enjoy it and we will build a luxury hotel where guests can enjoy the peace and tranquility that they come here for.

     

    • Anonymous says:

      Looks like Jack don't want me to bathe on my beach…

    • Anonymous says:

      Seriously doubt this writer is who he says he is.  I smell troll…

      • Anonymous says:

        And why would you doubt who I am? I have every right to state it as I see it. I am entitled to my opinion and you to yours..Now who is the troll?

      • Anonymous says:

        Hmmppphh! watch Dart shut down all employee free speech now!!!! yeah there spin doctors  would want us to believe  it wasnt an employee but anybody who did business with any of their people will KNOW this is EXACTLY how the Dart expats think, talk, act. DISRESPECTFUL.   

      • Anonymous says:

        Agreed.   Just trying to get a reaction and having a good time doing it!

        • Anonymous says:

          Don't try covering for whoever this is and in so doing making it same like it is a Caymanian. The cat got out of the bag no you are trying to through a sheet over him. Respond to the posting and let whoever it is know your feelings. All i am hearing from you right now is that this could nvever be an expat or a Dart employee..Take your head out of the sand and stop trying to cover things up

           

          • Anonymous says:

            No – what they are saying is that its a troll – deliberately posting something provocative simply to get an angry reaction out of people – whether they are caymanian or expat, dart employeee or not is irrelevant – simply by responding to them, they win. The best thing to do is to click on the troll button and ignore them.

        • Anonymous says:

          It's the CNS way with some folks.

    • Anonymous says:

      I don't know how you can't find what you are saying as prejudicial. What gives you the idea that this land that you or DART can come here and dictate to us  so called "natives" where and when we can use our beaches?

      The only reason DART has the upper hand in this situation is because we have and had a coorupt government who for whatever reason chose to sell us out. Luckily for you these are the same 'natives" you talk about but please don't generalize the rest of us lawabiding citizens with them.

      It is quite obvious you are here to stay on the DART gravy train until you can get permanent residency and status…but guess what then you will become a "native" too. You better hope that you can pass yourself off as a tourist and that DART keeps you employed otherwise it will be a lonely place for you.

      We take great pride in our National Airline and trust me they have more sales and keep prices down mor than your precious American Airlines. When was the last time you heard them promoting a sale on this island or promoting any charitable event. I'll bet you will be the first person on board when a hurricane rolls in…oops I forgot the DART private jet..lucky you!

       

      • Anonymous says:

        You've got to be kidding. American is far cheaper from most places. That makes it "precious" to me.  You must be on the government free flying gravy train.

    • Anonymous says:

      Not just the natives – two big thumbs down to you.

      Sit and enjoy your champagne and be left alone?

      STAY HOME!

      The only place you belong is your homeland.

      Now – do us all a favor – go crawl back under the rock you came out from under.

       

       

      • Anonymous says:

        If  I or my employer and the many decent expats had not "crawled out from under our rocks" as you say this island would be a wasteland. Something the truth hurts but it has to be said.

        Don't be so ungrateful! Give credit where it is due!

      • Anonymous says:

        I actually don't believe that post at all. That was written by  a troll, probably and anti-Dart Caymanian, looking to cause trouble. But I agree; he or she should crawl back under a rock.

        • Anonymous says:

          Looks like the DART PR team coming to the rescue with the thumbs up…too late!!

    • Anonymous says:

      It is very clear that you see Cayman in a very different light than we do. Sure there are some of us that agree with the road closure although I think if there was a poll done most would want to see whether this deal is value for money. this is something we will never get out of the current UDP and UDP Lite government.

      I believe your statements that we should separate Caymanians from tourists is very denigrating and it is prejudicial. Caymanians have always been welcoming to expats even to those like you that come herre and believe that we should accept your norms and beliefs. My mother would wash my mouth out with soap if those words ever came out of my mouth.

      Caymanians are a caring, welcoming and very respectful people otherwise there wouldn't be over 100 different nationalities living here harmoniously. Of course there are some Caymanians that don't fit this bill but then again there are people like you as well.

      Let's try to get along.

    • Anonymous says:

      I would suggest that u remain "Anonymous" and your crude insensitive remarks u can keep to ur self also……. our country would be so much better off w/out the likes of u n ur boss n his group of Company's who have a proven track record around the world of preying on the weak, be it a Person, Company or Country.

    • Richard Wadd says:

       I am all for the CONVERSION of this 'Strip' of West Bay Road into the pedestrian-only, public access Park that it will become.

       I believe that the benefits to us as Caymanians, as well as Expats and Tourists alike, far outweigh the negatives.

       However …

       DO NOT FORGET that this is OUR ISLAND and home!

       YOU (Mr / Ms "DART employee" – which I highly question, knowing the DART Group's policies and rules for employees), enjoy the benefits and freedoms that WE (Caymanians) maintain here, one of which allows you to earn a comparatively high TAX FREE income.

       Before you again display such a high degree of dis-respect and ingratitude towards the hands that are feeding you, please remember we have many 'Freedoms' here in the Cayman Islands that are your's to enjoy while you are here. 

       One is the freedom to LEAVE.

       I have grown up here and seen the massive change that has taken place over the 40+ years of my life, and I am sure I speak for most Caymanians, that the majority of that change, we wish we hadn't allowed. But hind-sight is 20/20.

       What we CAN address are those proposed changes going forward.

       Some of us support the road, some of us don't. But we ALL have the right to our opinion, and to voice it if we so wish.

       In a Democracy, the Majority rule. Now that "Mad Mac" is (temporarily) out of the picture, let us allow due process to take course.

       

      • Anonymous says:

        As a supporter of not closing the road, I question if you are a real Caymanian or someone trying to cover for this person…You are all over the place with this as if you are trying to make everyone smell like a rose..

         

        I smell a rat!  phew!!! Stinky!!

        • Richard Wadd says:

           What you "smell" is your own ignorance, borne from your lack of Comprehension skills.

           Perhaps if you were to spend your time persuing credible further-education, instead of trying to discredit those who share a different opinion from your own, then you might better understand my first post.

          • Anonymous says:

            Your response proves exactly what I was saying..How do you know I don't have higher education skills. I hold a Master Degree from a  very highly recognized American University, and yes I am Caymanian…Can you believe there is actually one like me?

            Stop trying to cover up your messes. Someone obviously spoke their mind and you obviously are trying to discredit them so that you can cover for your self or just maybe your organization.

            Everybody iss entitled to free speech and as much as I dislike what was said on here, that person had a right to speak just like you did. I do not agree with him or her but I will not try to say they are making up stuff just because it makes you feel good or you don't want to make a certain organization or person look bad.

             

            Get your head out of sand! Stop trying to cover this up!

      • Anonymous says:

        Cayman is not "tax free".

         

        The government is well funded via import duties. In Canada I pay income tax, in Cayman I pay a high cost of living through import duties. It is about equal.

    • Anonymous says:

      You are actually an inconsiderated, ignorant and selfish ass! Open your freaking eyes!! Can't you see what is the problem here?

    • Anonymous says:

      I am amazed as to how many people are giving a thumbs up to your posting.  Really? Are you fellow Dart employees or just fellow expats..Can't be Caymanians, I would hope not. Is this what Cayman has come to??..

    • Anonymous says:

      This is obviously a BS posting by someone just trying to rattle peoples cages, I would just ignore it…

    • Anonymous says:

      Don't like what he says or the way he says it, but you got to admit there's bits of truth there.

    • Anonymous says:

      I am not a native or even status holder but you sure sound like an arrogant, Self centered douche-bag. To say this island would be a shithole with out you and your sugar daddy make me want to slap you all day long.

    • Anonymous says:

      I am proud of this expat stepping out of his comfort zone and calling it like it is. Caymanians are too ungrateful and underestimate the value of us Expats. This island was nothing until we came here and invested in it. These same people sold us their land and now compalin that we own. You sure were happy to take our money back then. what did you think we were going to do with it, leave it undeveloped?

      You Caymanians should be grateful for all Mr. Dart has done for this island. He could have taken his money elsewhere. You owned all the land and you sold it to him now you are trying to tell him he can't close a road to develop it.

      Caymanians need to understand that tourists don't want to go to beach where there is a bunch of locals hanging out, doing drugs and God knows what else. This is the reason I don't even go to the Public Beach. If Dart is going to fix it up so that the locals can have a place to go and allow the tourists to feel safe at his hotel then so be it. Most countries locals are not even allowed on tourist related developments. Why should it be any different here. You have to know your place and stay in it.

      It is my strong opinion that the beach at thenew hotel should be restricted to guests of the hotel only. Nothing runs a country or a property down more than having the "rif raff" hanging around. I know I will be slammed for saying this but anyone who goes on vacation know they don't feel safe when they go to beaches and there is just a bunch of locals hanging around. You just don't feel safe and isn't that what Caymn prides itself on.

      I say allow the gentleman to close the road, build his hotel and tell the Caymanians to be grateful and thankful that he ids fixing up and area where they can actually congregate in a niceer environment. The public beach has been sitting direlect for years. Be Grateful!

       

       

       

       

       

       

      • Anonymous says:

        Just for clarity..We did not sell our road to Dart..Our government gave it to him in exchange for something that we have no clue whether we got good value for money.

        I tend to agree with some of these statements. It is our elected government that has done this deal and sold us out. We have no one to blame but ourselves for putting them there.

        May the good Lord bless and keep what little we have left of these once beautiful Cayman Islands!

         

      • Anonymous says:

        All of a sudden I am 'riff raff" in my own country.  What you fail to understand is that it was the warm welcoming and genuine personalities of the Caymanian people that encouraged people to keep coming back here and investing. You "Johnny come latetely's" don't know the history on how this country was built.

        This is the only country in the world that I know about that local people will allow outsiders come in and tell them they are lazy and worth nothing and shouldn't associate with people outside of their culture.  We are a patient and kind people but there is a certain amount that we will take before you get our back up. Don't think that we are always submissive.

        Walk lightly my friend!

      • Anonymous says:

        Describe "riff-raff"? You are calling Caymanians "riff-raff" so explain what you mean by that?

      • Anonymous says:

        Are you seriously grouping ALL Caymanians as riff-raff and drug users???  What are you doing here if that's the case??

      • Anonymous says:

        As an educated Caymanian who has gone to school in the states and is now back on islands it pains me to see what has become of the Island that I know and love. Reading through most of these comments has made my blood pressure rise as they are extremely inflammatory and ludicrous. West bay road and public beach do not need to be restricted to tourist or guest of darts new hotel monstrosity, that will mar the beauty of Our Seven Mile beach. That is PUBLIC BEACH! PUBLIC PROPERTY and we do use it! Closing WB rd will take us back 30 yrs when we had only one way to get into town. You are correct in saying he can do what he wants with the property he has bought but not with PUBLIC land and then to say we as Caymanians should not be allowed on it. You as an expat and employee of Dart can take yourself and your opinion back to where you came from. Expats did not make this island we have! Seven mile beach is one of the most gorgeous beaches in the Carribean and is why people want to come here. It does not need to be developed to be beautiful it needs to be left as is!

        • Anonymous says:

          If you were as educated as you say you arre you would understand that you are coming at this emotionally rather than rationally. Would you want to go to a nice hotel in the States and have local "riff raff" hanging out outside your hotel selling drugs and God know what else? My only regret is that he didn't get McKeeva to sell him that nasty Public Beach area as well so that it could have been closed and redeveloped into something nice where decent people could take their children and feel safe.

          Give DART a break. Before he got here this island was going nowhere. He brought a lot of us expats here who in turn invested and now demand higher standards be brought to bear if we are to continue to live here.

          Close the road and let DART fix up your public beach so you can at least have some place nice to go to the beach, at least for a little while before it is destroyed again.

    • Anonymous says:

      Wow. Your must be part of the Dart PR Team. Way to win friends and influence people.

      But this one is the real gem:

      "In any other countries, like the Bahamas and even Jamaica, there are separate areas for the natives to swim and conduct their business away from the hotels, that is what is needed here. Why would I as a tourist want to come to a luxury hotel to have a bunch of natives hassling me on the beach".

      And there you have it folks. He favours apartheid. Bear in mind that his employer has chosen to build a hotel right next to the PUBLIC beach but he at least thinks no local should be near to the hotel and definitely not swim near the tourists. It makes you wonder what the real intentions are with respect to the Public Beach.  

      "Better yet, chuck you crappy airline so that prices will go down an it will be cheaper for me to fly when I want".

      It is a complete myth that Cayman Airways keeps airfares high. In every Caribbean country where AA is the sole carrier airfares have gone through the roof. When you add the 2 free 55 lbs luggage you can get on KX it is actually a much better deal than AA who wants to charge you not only for bags but also extra because you select a window or aisle seat.  

      Racist idiots like this need to be rooted out.   

    • Anonymous says:

      I totally agree ..Some times the truth hurts but you have nailed it.  Caymanians need to understand that this will trickle down to them and they will get jobs from it. It most likely won't be the highing paying jobs and that is smply because you graduate hundreds of kids every year that can barely read and write and in a short term are dependent on the government for handouts.

      Get your education system working right and send more more people to college and then you might stand a chance in your own country to get a high paying job. How can you expect these big international firms to higher your illiterate, uneducated people?

      Caymanians need to get real and understand that this is not a world of entitlement. They also need to understand that particulalry in the field of tourism that image is a big thing and the writer is right about going to the public beach. It is like a Zoo there and the scent of marijuana is always prevalent. I would never take my kids there ever again. I am glad though that Dartis going to fx it up but it won't be long before these same people will spray paint their graffitti, leave their garbage and just disrespect the facilities until it is direlect again. This is what happens when uneducated people are given something for free.

      The truth does hurt but until you Caymanians understand that you are your worst enemy, you will continue to live in squalor and will get nowhere in life. I would encourge any of you that can afford it to go overseas to any other country so that you can see what good work ethic and good education means.

       

    • Anonymous says:

      You may have struck a nerve here but the truth isn't always the nicest thing to say . Kudos to you for putting it out there. I agree with you 100%.  Caymanians are ungrateful and believe that they are entitled to what we have. We went o school, got good education so that we could get the good jobs. Don't knock us for doing that. Be grateful that we choose to come her and invest and live on you island.

       

    • Anonymous says:

      I am guessing by now that hte Dart folks have carted you off and taken away your computer.  You have a few people on here I assume that are trying to make your email seem like it was sent by a Caymanian. i think everyone has seen through this. 

      Caymanians good or bad should not be painted with the same brush or generalized.

      Get a clue!

    • Anonymous says:

      That MUST have been a joke…. I cannot fathom the level of ignorace that this sad indivudual just displayed. Someone failed to inform me that we reverted back to the days of segregation and slavery. God's speed, you poor soul. With a mentality like that I am sure you have made many friends and I'm sure DART must be thrilled that you have so proudly broadcasted your affiliation with them. Just go home….

      • Anonymous says:

        Why should I go home? I have bought a home here and invested here and I have a good job which is a lot more than any of you so called "Caymanians" have ever done.  You are the ones who have chosen to be uneducated and jobless. Why blame it on us expats that come here and pay to make your life better?

    • Anonymous says:

      How original – pose as an expat that works for Dart and draft a scathing e-mail.  XXXX

      • Anonymous says:

        Dart PR. at work..sorry PR Department, cat is already out of the bag, stop trying to deflect this to make it same like someone else wrote it.. Sometimes you need to take it head on and deal with it..

  12. Anonymous says:

    Everyone wins on this deal. Cayman wins and yes Dart wins. Only a baffoon like Ezzard sees only one side. He is so fixated on McKeeva that he is now irrational. Mr Miller please try to forget Dr Horter…it’s gone, finished , over ….done !! Go find a hammock in Old Man Bay. Please.

    • Anonymous says:

      And don’t forget MACKEEVA MACKEEVA wins too. Again.

    • Anonymous says:

      Dart wins more tho' and that is the problem. A proper government would have negotiated a better deal for Cayman, not just given any developer everything that they want. 

  13. 4 Cayman says:

    Jude this is a bold move and I respect you for that. It’s encouraging to know you are standing up for the principles for cayman and Caymanians. However, how can I trust you? You are the one and same that financially supported UDP that today has placed us and generations to come in this mess? My issue is that you can talk all the nice things you want us to hear but are you really genuine about these concerns? Are you going to stop the move of the dump, are you going to give Caymanians a fair chance in the work force, are you going to extend the retirement age? How are you going to save cayman from this downward spiral?
    How are you going to fix the high cost of living?

    Let me tell you I am a blue collar worker and for the past three years I’ve been struggling to make ends meet. I hope for a better cayman but i am so tired of the corruption and the politicians selling our country out! It’s hard for me to trust any of you at this point and if I cold have my way, England couldn’t come any faster even if I had to pay income and property tax. At least I will know there will be transparency and I get for what I pay for. Not this mistake of paving someone’s drive way in error B@ll S@&t!

    I wish you the very best and hope you are truly for cayman!

    • Richard Wadd says:

       It is easy for one to critisize Jude for his past support of Mac and the UDP, but how many of US were also misguided in our support of him / UDP?

       There are ALWAYS pros and cons in any decision one makes. 

       Yes, I like Kurt & the PPM for their honesty and commitment to the Caymanian people, but the PPM Govt (of the day) got NOTHING done, except increasing our Debt-ratio dramatically.

       Give the Devil his due, at least "Mad Mac" made things happen … but at what cost to us?

       Jude, Roy, Wayne, Winston and quite a few of the "New" political hopefuls have THREE Major positives that they bring to the Political arena.:

      1). They are ALL Educated Caymanians, who have excelled in their chosen field.

      2). They are ALL Successful Caymanians, and therefore are not seeking personal gain from being in Politics.

      3). They ALL have Caymanian families, and therefore an interest in ensuring a stable and prosperous future for our Islands.

       Never before in the History of ANY Caribbean nation, has there been a gathering of this caliber of Patriots, with the common direction of securing the future of our homeland for ALL Caymanians.

       To ALL Caymanians, I implore you, let us not waste this opportunity for positive change by returning to the politics of old that have put us where we are today.

      • Anonymous says:

        Seriously, how can you say that the PPM got nothing done? You can say that they spent a lot of money but you can't say they didn't do anything good with public money. Give some credit where credit is due. 

        Were you at the sports complex last night to see the new track in use, and the lights?

        How about the Bocce court and the lights on the netball courts?

        Have you been to the new GOAP?

        Have you been to the new VL building?

        Have you seen the new school buildings?

        What about post-Paloma assistance of 10 million dollars on the Brac?

         

        What about upgrades to or new buildings for:

        The Golden Age home?

        Nurse Josie's Senior Centre?

        Extension to the Kirkconnell Community Centre?

        Jimmy Powell Players Pavilion?

        Annex field turf, grandstand and lighting?

        Haig Bodden Sports Centre?

        Old Man Bay Football field?

        Ed Bush Sports Complex including artificial turf, grandstand, stadium quality lighting?

        Lions Swimming Pool grandstands and building?

        Jetties and ramps at various locations?

        Parks in various communities?

        First phase of the East West Arterial?

        Second and third phases of the ETH?

        North Sound Road, Elgin Avenue, Dorcy Drive, Seymour Road, Marina Drive, Shamrock Road, Queens Highway?

        Four marine vessels?

        Drugs Tasks Force and Marine Unit Marina design and base?

        First phase of terminal expansion at the airport?

        Improvement of GPO?

        New Savannah PO?

        Replacement and new PO boxes in GT?

        East End Cemetery Wall, Bay Seawall, Clarinda Beach Seawall to protect East End?

        38% reduction in basic electricityrates from CUC?

        Extension of Frank Sound Public Water Supply?

        Rehab of West Bay Sewerage System?

        New North Side pumping station and extension of the North Side Public Water Supply?

        Repaired and reopened National Museum, Harquail Theatre, BT Library, EE Library, NS Library, West Bays FIRST Library, new annex to GT Library?

        I could go on but my hands are tired …..

  14. Anonymous says:

    Get over it!!! It’s a huge benefit for cayman!!

  15. Anonymous says:

    do not vote for anyone opposing the road closure ! they will hinder progess on the island and slow the economy ,meaning less money in circulation for all .

  16. Anonymous says:

    No section of road should be closed to vehicular traffic without the public seeing the "value for money" report first. If it is such a good deal, why hide the evidence? The perception of something not being right here far outweighs any possible reality. 

  17. Anonymous says:

    WB are a unique people they would kill you over keke no matter what but when keke scew you all, you all never same to learn! Giving away your island for $5 or stove is worth it? Vote for him again and watch wb loose more Land & make Caymanian lives harder! Keke has always been a selfish man from creation & has punished his own people who supported him for decades! !!!

    Braca

    • N Somniac says:

      Mac has been that way since Creation?  Is he really about 6,000 years old?

  18. Anonymous says:

    The bottom line is this – THE MAJORITY would like the road to be closed, and welcome the redevelopment of the public beach with it's new,and enhance facilities. We need a few more like DART.

    Here is a more sensible concern – Wonder what's at the movies this weekend, or which band will be playing in the courtyard at Camana? 🙂

     

     

    • Anonymous says:

      11 bucks to watch a movie ! Pass on dat !

      • One Of Those Furreigners says:

        That is why we love Camana Bay.  Better class of clientele because the prices are just high enough to keep miserable cheapskates away.

        • Anonymous says:

          Glad you like to distance yourself from poorer people, shows you can't buy class.

    • Anonymous says:

      Give me a dozen Darts and I could rule the world!

  19. Anonymous says:

    Ummm let me see…

    Road – check

    Beach – check

    Condos – check

    Garbage – check

    School – check

    Electricity – check

    Non-profits – check

    Cinema / entertainment – check

    Games – check

    Rum shop – check

    Bank – gift card, good enough for now…

    Food – in progress

    Wool – more than enough, but order more

    …now what am I forgetting… oh yes, water! 

     

     

    • noname says:

      Economic super-monopoly in 10 years
      political control thru super PAC- Koch brothers there Dart brothers here
      Fco, gov’nuh,immigration, auditor general rcips all llook the other way (too big to take on)
      Place stink with nepotism + internal greed
      sprayed over with expensive philanthropic febreze.
      Friends and family getting the work and work permits

      Yeh some people are CAVE (locals and expats)
      Majority of the people want a fair deal
      Cayman govt has been ambushed by the economic hit man (woman)

      Where to next?

      Read the book people.

  20. Anonymous says:

    R U REALLY TRULY 4 CAYMAN ???

    When reviewing the entire scheme I cannot help but wonder how over 90% of the population see the benefits of adding an extra carriageway (road) and two additional connecting roads to West Bay – PLUS the safety of a divided two lane road – not the death trap the West Bay road has become.

    AND in addition a whole new and improved public beach area with camp site, water features, multi-pupose beach sports area, kids play area and proper parking. Cycle path and walking route and a multitude of other improvements.

    THEN, we have the rest that somehow can't see that this is an improvement????? 

    But you say it's the terms of the deal that needs to clarified….

    Well, let's just assume that I want to buy a rundown old house. Nobody wants it becuse its a mess. But I can see that with a substantial investment I can teardown the house and build in its place a beautiful home – one that anyone would love to live in.

    What do I do? Do I show the seller of old home my new plans and watch the price QUADRUPLE!????……  No, of course not. I pay fair market price for the property AS IS.

    I then make my investments and improvements and reap what I sow. That's how it works the world over.

    It is clear to see that with the substantial investment made in the new road, public beach and the future development of hotels and amenities that much much more benefit will be derived from this project than leaving the West Bay Road the way it is. AND a safer, quicker commute from West Bay.

     

    • Anonymous says:

      Finally some sanity! 

    • Anonymous says:

      Your analogy does not make sense. If we have to choose between easy access to our "old run down house (can you really see SMB as that?) and limited access, there is no comparsion. We want to keep our old run down house.

      • Anonymous says:

        The old derelict Courtyard Marriott is the rundown house.  

        • Anonymous says:

          We aren't giving that up, we don't own it and that is why this makes no sense.

      • Anonymous says:

        It's not about the access. It's about the value of the deal.

        You know that in every negotiated purchase or sale some would expect more and some would expect less.

        As for access the new proosal gives far more access to the public facilities on SMB than before – so that is definately a big plus ++++

        The analogy is reflective of how we seem to do things here in Cayman. If we can't see the benefit ourselves then we should stop it or make it sound like something bad has happened. The old 'land crab mentaluty' I guess.

         

    • Anonymous says:

      I thought camping was illegal?

    • Tryso Nabodda says:

      It’s not worth it. They are not interested in facts. They conveniently ignore them as it suits their true motivations. Their objections are not really about a piece of asphalt or an already non-existent view or indeed their heritage, birthright or culture.

      If recent precedent is anything to go by then assuming their 4000 signatures were all legitimate, they are still outvoted by about 52,000 anyway.

      I wanted to know more, so I took the time to educate myself. Forcayman.com is a good place to start but don’t just take Dart’s word for it, listen to the people you elected to represent you as well, nothing like democracy, is there now?

  21. Anonymous says:

    The present lot of UDP lites are compromised. Seems like its is Mac still calling the shots. All the UDP lites have an interst in pushing the Dart manifesto before the next elections.

    When will Rolston, Cline, Mark and Juliana realise they sound foolish and disrespectful of the voting public with their public pronouncements. The vomitthey puke out with big words and sentences and (prayer when caught at the court!) sound hollow. Stop stealing and do your job. All 4 of you should come clean with your real reason for continuing with Mac's policies i.e project Dart land . Put your hand on your heart and say the real reason you will not stop the West bay raod. Say it now or Mac will spill the beans under police pressure and all your contracts and ill gotten gains will disappear. Watch out for the flashing lights outside your doorsteps.

    • Anonymous says:

      Fully agree. Auditor General should audit the Dart Deal under a court order and reveal the people who got the contracts for the projects. This old UDP strategy of creating large Capital and construction projects and then grabbing the cash flows from the project through furniture contracts, consulting fees, marl and fill contracts, interior decoration contracts etc. given out to buddies and themselves under false names. This trick has been played out with the Hyatt,Turtle Farm, Ritz, Dart project and the list continues.

      Mac did not think this strategy up. This is how money is stolen from public coffers the world over. The press/opposition stops it through public opinion…. or not.

    • Anonymous says:

      All true. The underhanded contracts to UDP buddies and phantom 'dynamite' companies for e.g ( why is paving equipment sitting in Brac?- so a certain local Co. can get all the contracts – govt .contracts or otherwise) . The The theives must be stopped now and in May make sure Caymn you do not vote these muppets. If you do then heaven help you and you have only yourself to blame. Look at how Bahamians live in the inner city after independence. Lots of people like Dart in Nassau but the 'locals' are broke except the 'connected' few.

      This UDP removal  by UDP lite is a big screen. Mac still calling the shots- someone tap the phones of the fab five.

  22. Anonymous says:

    Close it and get on with it, already.

    Disconnect West Bay from the rest of Cayman and be done with it.

  23. Anonymous says:

    Yawn……..

  24. Anonymous says:

    Boy Jude Scott already sounding like a politician – say wha you expect most want to hear!! Sad.

    • Anonymous says:

      Jude Scott lives at Camana Bay. Roy McTaggart''s new wife works for Mr. Dart.  Winston Connolly bought land in Salt Creek on which a house has to be built within 18 months as per the contract.  Dan Scott moved the entire Ernst and Young Cayman operation to Camana Bay.  Mervyn Smith does huge amounts of work for Dart. Johann Moxam is presently embroiled in litigation with Mario Rankine and Rex Rankine about shares and dividends in a company called Materials Import Ltd., which has or had lucractive contracts with ….oops…. Mr. Dart   Is there any doubt where C4C stand on this issue?

      • Anonymous says:

        Another anti-C4C blogger with too much time on their hands. Have you ever considered asking for some solutions from the udp and ppm?

      • Anonymous says:

        And I bet you don’t go to the cinema or eat at Michaels. One has nothing to do with the other. Mostly everyone on this island does business with the Dart Group when patronizing Camana Bay.

        I think the candidates that work or live in the Camana Bay Area that still have a balanced view about the Rd closure are showing true independent thinking. It shows that they cannot be bought. Moreover, many honest Caymanians work with the Dart group but this does not preclude them from having a balanced opinion on the road closure.

        • Anonymous says:

          Pretty ridiculous to compare going to the cinema at Camana Bay to being financially dependent on Dart, don't you think? 

  25. West Bayer Tru & Tru says:

    Close the bloody road so we can start to enjoy some of Darts money. I cannot wait for the new beach park. Thank you Mr Dart.

    • Anonymous says:

      Have I named you tool yet? Tool.

      • Anonymous says:

        i know you are…..

      • Asbo Zaprudder says:

        I can't help but wonder what sort of person goes online just to post that other people are "Tools".  I am thinking overweight, underacheving thirty something with an inadequate sex life but a high level character in a massivemulitplayer online game.  Of course "Tool Boy" will deny this, but that is because he is "in character" posing as an 19 years college girl on Craig's List right now.

  26. Anonymous says:

    WELL DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!!!

  27. Anonymous says:

    what petition?…the one that was signed by tourists, children, pets…etc….????

    don't make me laugh…… if you think there is enough support for this 'cause' go ahead and organise an official legally binding petition…..

    or maybe you can have another embarassing public demonstration with 150 people…….

    • Anonymous says:

      I just love you school ground taunting, tool of mckeeva

      • Anonymous says:

        i'm no tool of mckeeva….. he is a village idiot elected by fellow village idiots (many of whom now are part of 'truly for cayman'….)…and will likely vote him in again…….. alice in wonderland stuff

    • Anonymous says:

      there were less than 200 votes that were invalid. Generally with petitions it is quit normal that a small percentage of petition signatures will be considered in valid due to duplications etc 

      • Anonymous says:

        There were way more invalid that that. I read the report that was done on it in the newspaper a while back. It was a bunch of lies. And they told people Dart was getting public beach, which he isn't.

  28. Anonymous says:

    Every single UDP member should hang their head in shame and be charged with Treason! How much did UDP negotiating team get for themselves when they were pretending to secure the best deal for the people of Cayman? UDP lite is exactly the same as Big Mac UDP except they wear purple and kiss up to press conferences trying to defend the latest bad deal. If cayman voters elect any member involved with old and new UDP you have no business to complain about the crap they do. Leopards cannot change they spots!

    • Anonymous says:

      I don't think they did negotiate, I think they just said yes to everything Dart wanted.

  29. Anonymous says:

    The political aspirants time would be better spent making sure the cruise ship pier doesn't wipe out 7 mile beach and the west side dive industry.

    Where is the environmental impact assessment for the pier?

  30. Anonymous says:

    How much of this is political posturing for the silly season?

  31. Annie Getcha Gunn says:

    I agree 100% about having required transparency, exit stratagies and assurances of value-for-money.
    However, the section of Road in question is NOT being closed to Public access, only Vehicular access.
    Any statement implying otherwise is an outright LIE.

    • Anonymous says:

      It is being taken out of the control of the public. Once this land is gifted to Dart he can do what ever he wants with it.  There will be no binding right of ways or access over this land. Dart can decide the next day he does want the public trials and bike paths if he so desires and there will be no recourse.

    • Anonymous says:

      No one has said that the road  is being closed to public access. The road is going to be torn up though so what would you call it? Open? Seriously? Everyone will have to park in the new parking lot and walk up to 3/4 of a mile to find a spot of beach. You may feel this isn't a problem. You may feel this won't be a problem in the future when the population increases. Many other people don't agree with you. Not just the people who protest and/or sign the petition. Almost no civil servant or employee of any Authority will sign the petition or come to a protest for fear of intimidation. They don't agree with the road being closed for vehicular access but they feel they can't publicly protest it either. 

    • Anonymous says:

      well then there is no need for the road land to be sold to Dart. 

      CIG – buy back the land for the same amount it was sold for – the measley laughable $6 million – and then we can talk …

      • Anonymous says:

        Ah…. Earth to Space Cadet, come in Space Cadet.  Is this Space Cadet? Space Cadet, please stop sniffing glue. It's damaging your thought process. Over and out.

      • Anonymous says:

        The government doesn't even have the 6 million on hand to pay it back..  they can't afford the lawyers to sue.  This deal is done. All this seems like empty hot air.

  32. Anonymous says:

    Ezzard is so boring, needs a new topic if he wants votes.

    But I do love how you manage to write a whole article without mentioning what Government negotiated in exchange for road closure – the 30 mill highway, the 150 mill hotel, the beach park, the bike and walking paths in permanent access, the new beaches now in smith cove and barkers, the new sunrise land, the 20 acres in West Bay.

    Also CNS can you please publish the petition on here so we can all see who signed it? 

    • Power of the People says:

      Excuse me? The government DID NOT negotiate a new hotel in exchange for the road – THAT is Dart's and gov't will barely get fees out of it! Plus, the highway was needed BY DART to access his other property. Further, the concessions and reduced fees and non-existant gov't taxes will benefit the CIG none at all.

      The land swap was apples and rotten tomatoes! PRIME SMB land for swamp pits in WB??? Get your details straight. Dart didn't even offer the 'prime' Barkers location…just the afterbirth that he had little to no developmental use for.

      I am so sickened by the sheep mentality of people on this island. Go along, like nice little sheep. To the slaughter with you! Sadly you are taking us all with you. Too late when you realize the true intentions of the greedy and heartless.

      Tell me, oh wise one, what do you think Dart really wants out of all of this? To 'help' poor old Cayman?? Do you really think that at the end of the day he is looking out for us? If so, then why isn't he showing his face and meeting the people he loves so much!? You think he's giving all these beaches and fountains and bike paths and parks because he genuinely cares for this island and the people – – – Or would it be truer to say that it is more like the mean old witch in Hansel & Gretel who padded her home with sweets…not to nourish the precious children with scrumptious candies and goodies…but to lure them in so she could eat them.

      "Beware of the Greeks bearing gifts". Cayman can fall victim to its own Trojan horse.

       

      • Anonymous says:

        Where do you start with something so filled with lies and misrepresentations?

        Dart opening the new hotel was indeed part of the negotiations, at least after Dart bought the Stan Thomas property.  It's not the only part, but it was an important part.

        Barely any fees? Half is not barely and it will create a major economic stimulus, just like the building of every other major hotel has.

        Dart didn't need to build this highway to get access to the new property; that's a straight out lie.  Just like Salt Creek, Vista Del Mar and the Yacht Club have access to the main road, Dart could have build roads to the new property from West Bay Road since he owns all of the property.  Would it have been ideal? No, but he could have done it. He had access, so stop your lies.

        I am sickened by poeple like you, so full of hate and envy that you'll say anything to support your agenda.

        Do I think Dart wants to make a profit. I certainly hope so because he'd be a fool if the answer was no. But is Dart doing the best developing this island has ever seen? Absolutely. Is the Dart Group giving and giving to improve the island and to support Cayman's culture like the Catboat Club, and dozens of other charities. Absolutely.'

        And just what have you done for the Cayman Islands other than lay claim to the riches to which you feel entitled?

    • Anonymous says:

      Tourists and children signed the petition. And a bunch of people signed multiple times. There was a big story about it a couple of years ago. That petition, unlike the petition for OMOV, was a sham.

  33. Anonymous says:

    No comment from the other independents like Roy McTaggart, Winston Connoly, Tara Rivers, Stefan Baraod the question is why not?

     

    CNS: Tara Rivers has not yet formally declared her intention to run so CNS did not solicit her opinion. However the other three were contacted and we received no response.

  34. Anon says:

    It is refreshing to see independents like Jude Scott stand for something and show their passion for Cayman this is a terrible deal for the country

  35. Dun Kno says:

    Good to see people speaking out against a deal that primarily serves the interest of DART yet UDP claim they working for the ppl. Gimme a break!

    Thanks for clearly stating your position Jude Scott your are correct the UDP failed us and have proven yet again they are all about “substance over progress”

    • RRP says:

      I don’t think Jude spoke against the deal. I think he’s criticizing the way government proceeds with the deal. No one knows if this is value for money. Maybe it is or maybe it isn’t. That’s what is being criticized. How are our representatives allowed to represent us, negotiate on our behalf, make decisions for our future without any accountability to us?

  36. Anonymous says:

    It's unfortunate that the deal is associated with Bush. Fortunately though it's a done deal.