Town Talk Rekindled in Ladyville and Lord’s Bank

The villages of Ladyville and Lord’s Bank in Belize District are at the center of a renewed debate: Should Ladyville become a town? This long-standing idea has gained fresh momentum following a recent community meeting organized by the village councils. With over 12,000 residents and nearly 4,000 households as of 2022, the area is rapidly growing, but so are its challenges—crumbling roads, poor drainage, and rising security concerns. The proposal to elevate Ladyville to town status aims to address these issues by potentially unlocking more funding, improving infrastructure, and giving residents a stronger voice. Lord’s Bank, a neighboring village, has also joined the conversation, with discussions exploring the benefits of merging the two communities. Bernardo Bennett, Chairman of Ladyville, highlighted the practical advantages, noting that many Lord’s Bank residents already conduct business in Ladyville. However, concerns about increased land taxes remain a key consideration. Dolores Balderamos-Garcia, Belize Rural Central Area Representative, emphasized the importance of community involvement and careful planning before any decisions are made. While the idea is still in its early stages, the renewed dialogue signals a potential turning point for the region’s development.