MANCHESTER, Jamaica — In the wake of devastating flooding triggered by Hurricane Melissa, local Councillor Mario Mitchell has issued a formal appeal for assistance. Representing the Bellefield Division under the People’s National Party, Mitchell has reached out to both corporate and governmental entities to address a critical housing crisis in the Content area of Manchester.
The councillor confirmed he has submitted an official written request to UC Rusal Alumina Jamaica, operating as Windalco, urging the company to allocate adjacent lands near the Williamsfield and Content zones. This land would serve as a relocation site for approximately 15 households whose homes were rendered uninhabitable by weeks of persistent groundwater inundation.
Mitchell further amplified his plea by calling on the Jamaican Government to intervene through its Social Housing Programme or other disaster relief initiatives. He emphasized the urgent need to provide structured support for citizens who are now too fearful to return to their damaged properties, despite the recent reopening of the Content main road.
The situation stems from the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which caused severe flooding that submerged numerous houses. This has created a protracted humanitarian issue, with residents expressing a collective willingness to evacuate the vulnerable area permanently if provided with a safe alternative. Mitchell’s public statements highlight a coordinated effort between local representation and potential private-public partnerships to forge a long-term solution for the displaced community.