MONEGO BAY, Jamaica — Prominent local entrepreneur Milton Russell has declared his intention to pursue all available legal avenues, including Jamaica’s final appellate court, to contest a recent judicial mandate requiring the demolition of unauthorized sections of his acclaimed Snappaz Seafood Grill and Sports Bar.
The St James Parish Court’s late January ruling found Russell in violation of multiple planning regulations, including the Planning Act and Town and Country Planning Development Orders from 1982 and 2018. The court instructed Russell to terminate operations and dismantle all unapproved structures on his Kent Avenue property by February 2026, authorizing the St James Municipal Corporation to execute the demolition at his expense if compliance is not met.
Russell, expressing bewilderment at the judgment, informed media that he has formally initiated appellate proceedings. “I have instructed my lawyer to appeal because I simply cannot comprehend this decision. If unsuccessful, I will proceed to the Privy Council,” he stated.
The conflict originated in January 2021 when municipal authorities issued a stop order against Snappaz for constructing without proper permits. Aviation safety concerns subsequently emerged, with officials citing potential interference with flight paths from nearby Sangster International Airport. The Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority, adhering to international standards, regulates building heights near airports to maintain safe obstacle limitation surfaces.
Russell contends that authorities have failed to specify the exact height restriction he allegedly violated. “Nobody can tell me what the height restrictions are, despite claims that I’m in the flight path,” he asserted, adding that he had offered to modify the roof to address concerns.
The businessman further challenges the zoning justification, noting that the area has organically evolved into a mixed-use community where commercial and residential properties coexist harmoniously. He emphasizes the restaurant’s economic significance, employing 47 staff members and serving approximately 300 patrons, while highlighting its community contributions including post-hurricane relief efforts and providing free Wi-Fi services.
Despite ongoing health concerns exacerbated by the legal stress, Russell confirms he is engaging in dialogue with municipal leadership to explore regularization possibilities while preparing his legal defense.