Local Governance Act, 2016 (No. 8 of 2016). Country/Territory Jamaica Document type Legislation Date 2016 Source FAO, FAOLEX Long titleAn Act to provide for the comprehensive reforn of Jamaica's local government system, through which Local Authorities will be granted greater scope and autonomy in the management of local affairs, with an expanded and more holistic mandate for the good governance, sustainable development and maintenance of good civic order within their respective jurisdictions, and for connected matters. Subject Agricultural & rural development, Land & soil Keyword Local government Institution Governance Public participation Access-to-information Business/industry/corporations Offences/penalties Land-use planning Transfer Public land Geographical area Americas, Caribbean, Latin America and the Caribbean, Small Island Developing States Abstract This Act provides with respect to local government in Jamaica. The principal objects of this Act are to- (a) establish a rational framework with regard to the different types of Local Authorities Including municipal corporations); (b) broaden the mandate of Local Authorities by making them responsible for good governance, sustainable development and maintenance of civic order within their jurisdictions; (c) enhance the capacity of Local Authorities to more effectively manage local affairs; (d) ensure accountability and transparency on the part of Local Authorities; (e) define the roles of, and relationship between, the political and administrative organs of Local Authorities; (f) facilitate the participation and empowerment of civil society and communities in local governance processes; (g) broaden the democratic process to ensure full participation in the local governance system and promote greater inclusiveness and equity for all sectors of the society. In carrying out its functions, a Local Authority may- (a) enter into joint venture relationships, public private partnerships and other such arrangements where these are deemed advantageous. Full text English Website www.japarliament.gov.jm