The St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry has raised concerns over aggressive tax enforcement practices that are impacting local businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises. COCI pointed to ongoing administrative errors between the Tax Inspectorate and the Receiver’s Office, which have led to premature actions like liens and auction threats—even in cases where payments were made or disputes are still active.
The Chamber warned that these practices are putting additional strain on businesses already dealing with high costs, labor shortages, and lingering financial challenges. COCI is urging the government to ensure accuracy before taking enforcement steps and to show flexibility when businesses are cooperative or on payment plans.
COCI also called for reforms to improve coordination between tax departments, expand the taxpayer base, and create fairer policies that support both compliance and business growth. The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to working with government to find solutions that strengthen the economy without overburdening businesses.
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STORY5:
VROMI Completes Urgent Landslide Repairs in Ebenezer
The Ministry of VROMI has completed emergency stabilization works on Ebenezer Road, addressing a major landslide threat ahead of the 2025 hurricane season. The hillside, which had eroded significantly since 2024 storms, was putting homes, infrastructure, and drainage systems at serious risk.
The project followed years of resident complaints and worsening conditions, including the collapse of a septic tank and cistern after heavy rains last year. Immediate action was taken after assessments wrapped up in February 2025. Work began in March and concluded in under three months.
Repairs included slope anchoring, a shotcrete nailed wall, and trench restoration to prevent future erosion and flooding. The intervention was carried out by specialized contractor AcrobatX.
The Ministry, under Minister Patrice Gumbs, emphasized that this project shows the need for responsible development and proper permitting. Efforts are underway to formalize civil works permit procedures and improve construction oversight.
A follow-up project is planned to restore the full Ebenezer trench, which drains water from the South Reward hills through Cul-de-Sac to Philipsburg. A budget request has been submitted to fund future landslide mitigation efforts nationwide.
Residents are now better protected from landslides and flooding. The Ministry thanked the community for its cooperation and urged continued vigilance during storm season.