Thursday, February 19, 2026
Casino developer’s ‘win-win’ Governor’s Harbour pledge
BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
A US gaming developer yesterday pledged his proposed Governor’s Harbour project, featuring plans for a mega yacht marina and “boutique” casino, will be a “win-win development” for central Eleuthera and involve the local community at every stage.
Jef Jacobs, principal of Jacobs Entertainment, told Tribune Business in a messaged response to this newspaper’s inquiries that he has no intention of imposing his development vision on Eleuthera residents and will “listen carefully” to their views and concerns to ensure any investment is environmentally and fnancially sustainable.
Asserting that a “tourist-oriented development in central Eleuthera can serve as a rising tide to lift all boats”, he added that its scale and form were “decisions” for the local community and Bahamian government to make.
However, Tribune Business can reveal that his plans have already sparked alarm among many residents as well as environmental activists, who fear Mr Jacobs’ proposal - especially for a casino, regardless of its size - is simply too large for the Governor’s Harbour area while also being out of “tone” with the community’s history and character (see other article on Page 1B).
They are also concerned that Eleuthera’s
Jacobs Entertainment chief a rms mega yacht, ‘boutique’
infrastructure, especially its already-challenged electricity and water utilities, will simply be unable to cope with the additional demands exerted by such a development, while its scale will also exert undue pressure on the environment and require potentially hundreds of workers to be imported from Nassau and/ or overseas because the island’s own workforce is unable to meet the labour requirements.
Mr Jacobs told this newspaper that his current thinking includes developing four to fve “lock and leave” neighbourhoods, which some observers yesterday interpreted as a reference to gated com munities; plus a small resort with several restaurants, a mega yacht marina, small boutique hotel and “afordable work force housing”. No esti mates were
But promises that Eleuthera residents will make necessary ‘decision’
Governor’s Harbour plan is model ‘that’s never worked’
BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
AN ex-Bahamas National Trust (BNT) executive director yesterday argued that a seemingly large-scale investment project targeted at Eleuthera’s Governor’s Harbour, and featuring proposed mega yacht and “boutique” casino facilities, is employing a development model that has “never worked in the Family Islands”. Eric Carey, an environmental advocate who now
Gov’ts Bazaar move driven by 20-year ‘vesting’ woes
BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor
nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
A CABINET minister yesterday said the Government has little choice but to acquire Freeport’s International Bazaar by compulsory acquisition because it would otherwise have to wait 20 years for ownership to be “fully vested” in it.
Ginger Moxey, minister for Grand Bahama, said outside the House of Assembly that the Davis administration had decided to act - despite having negotiated a $2.8m purchase of the now-derelict property with the majority of its 13 owners - because the company that owns the Bazaar and its real estate had been struck of the Companies Registry. She pointed out that, under reforms to the Companies Act’s section 273 that were implemented in 2019, any property or other
Planning Institute Bill put beyond February
BY FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
THE NATIONAL Development Planning Institute Bill is unlikely to meet its original end-of-February completion deadline as ofcials work to strengthen the legislation following public consultation.
Felix Stubbs, chairman of the National Development Plan steering committee, said feedback from recent consultations made it clear that additional work is needed to strengthen the
Gov’t ‘quite supportive’ as tourism labelled ‘rising tide to lift all boats’
lives on Eleuthera, told Trib-
une Business that the initial “ideas” proposed by Jef Jacobs, a casino and hospitality developer whose company owns numerous gaming facilities in the US, raises multiple concerns for residents and the Governor’s Harbour community due to the extra pressure it would likely impose on the island’s already-strained utilities infrastructure, environment and workforce.
Speaking after Mr Jacobs confrmed to this newspaper that the Government was “quite supportive” of his thoughts, which also include the development of “four to fve ‘lock to leave’ communities; a “small hotel” with numerous restaurants; afordable worker housing; pedestrian trails and improved public beach access, Mr Carey argued that successive administrations have been overly-eager to embrace such mega resorttype projects in the Family Islands.
Grand Lucayan’s terminations target endFebruary close
Up to 279 sta set to receive severance
Protracted late pay sage drawing to end Resort sale near close with Disney, MSC
BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
THE Government plans to complete the termination of all 279 Grand Lucayan staf by February 27, 2026, it has been revealed, as eforts to complete the resort’s $120m sale to Concord Wilshire head into what is likely to be the fnal stages.
Julian Russell, chairman of Lucayan Renewal Holdings, the Government-owned special purpose vehicle (SPV) that holds the Grand Bahama-based resort, informed Obie Ferguson KC, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) president, of the intent to pay all workers their due severance pay, other benefts and entitlements under their relevant industrial agreements by month’s end. The letter, addressed to Mr Ferguson in his capacity as head of the Bahamas Hotel Managerial Association (BHMA), which represents 94 Grand Lucayan middle managers, was dated February 13, 2026. “As you are aware, the Government of The Bahamas has entered into an agreement to sell the Grand Lucayan Resort to Concord Wilshire Group and, as such, we write to inform you of the pending redundancy of all employees, including members of the Bahamas Hotel Managerial Association,” Mr Russell said.
Bill thus making it unlikely the legislation will meet the deadline for completion and tabling in the House of Assembly. He added that there was a general consensus that aspects of the draft were “a little bit weaker” and required refnement, adding the committee will spend the next two weeks revising the legislation, with hopes of meeting an end-of-March target.
Despite the revised timeline, Mr Stubbs said he remains confdent the Bill will be tabled in
GRAND LUCAYAN RESORT
Use digital technology and take Bahamas to the world
IN The Bahamas, we often speak about tourism as if it is something that simply arrives on our shores. Cruise ships dock. Planes land. Visitors step on to Bay Street or into resorts on Paradise Island. Yet, in the digital age, tourism and international commerce increasingly begin long before a traveller boards a fight. They begin online. For Bahamian businesses, the question is no longer whether technology matters. The question is how efectively are we using it to attract and convert international customers before they ever set foot in Nassau, Freeport, Abaco or Exuma. Today, a small boutique hotel in Harbour Island has, in theory, the same access as a global retailer to a customer in Toronto or London. A bonefshing guide in Andros can market to enthusiasts in Texas. A craft producer in Long Island can ship hand-made products to buyers in New York. The gateway is digital visibility, and the tools are more accessible than ever.
R OYE II KEITH
A professional website is no longer a luxury. It is the new store front. International customers expect clear pricing, high quality images, online booking options and secure payment systems. If they cannot fnd this information quickly, they move on. Search engine optimisation ensures that when someone types ‘best snorkelling in The Bahamas’ or ‘authentic Bahamian gifts’, local businesses appear in those
results. Visibility equals opportunity. Social media has also evolved from a marketing accessory into a primary channel of global engagement. Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and TikTok allow Bahamian entrepreneurs to showcase experiences in real time. A well-produced, 30 second video of a sunset sail or a Junkanoo-inspired design can travel across continents in hours. The Bahamas has a natural advantage in visual story-telling. Technology simply amplifes it.
Beyond visibility, technology strengthens credibility. Online reviews on platforms such as TripAdvisor and Google infuence purchasing decisions more than traditional advertising ever did. International visitors rely on peer validation. Local businesses that actively manage their digital reputation, respond to reviews and maintain consistent communication demonstrate professionalism that builds trust.
E-commerce also opens new revenue streams that are not limited by geography. A straw vendor who once relied solely on foot trafc in the Straw Market can now sell globally through an online store. Digital payment platforms reduce friction, while international shipping partnerships extend reach. For a small island economy, this diversifcation is critical. It reduces dependency on seasonal tourist fows and spreads economic participation beyond major resort hubs.
Data is another powerful tool. Even small businesses can now access analytics that reveal where customers are located, what products they browse, and how they found the business. This insight allows for targeted advertising campaigns in specifc countries or cities. Rather than spending broadly, Bahamian businesses can market strategically to audiences most likely to visit or purchase. Importantly, technology can also level the playing feld between large resorts
and small local operators. While multinational brands have large marketing budgets, digital platforms reward creativity, authenticity and engagement. A compelling story about Bahamian heritage, sustainability or community impact can resonate strongly with international audiences seeking meaningful travel experiences.
For the Bahamian economy, the implications are signifcant. Increased direct bookings mean more revenue stays in local hands rather than fowing through foreign intermediaries. Expanded online sales contribute to foreign exchange earnings. Greater digital competence across sectors strengthens national competitiveness.
However, embracing technology requires investment in digital literacy, reliable Internet infrastructure and cyber security awareness. Public and private sector collaboration is essential. Training initiatives, accessible fnancing for digital upgrades, and supportive policies can
Rosewood Exuma opponents ramp up for next consultation
BY FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter
jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
OPPONENTS of the proposed $200m Rosewood Exuma project are ramping up eforts to mobilise support ahead of Friday’s second Town Planning Committee consultation on its revised application for preliminary site plan approval.
The Save Exuma Alliance (SEA), a collection of businesses from the island, is calling on residents to “show up and speak out”, arguing that the revised
plans for the development raise concerns that deserve full public examination.
In a statement, the coalition of businesses, neighbouring islands and residents said the timing of the review makes it critical for residents to attend and ensure their concerns are formally recorded.
“This meeting is a critical opportunity for the public to raise concerns and questions. It’s important that the people of Exuma come out so the wider Bahamian public can see how they feel,” said the Alliance. It voiced concerns that without strong public
participation, key issues raised in earlier consultations could go unaddressed.
The group said it has been circulating information about the meeting across social media and community networks in an efort to ensure residents are aware of the date, time and location of the session.
The Alliance also renewed concerns about the integrity and adequacy of the consultation process surrounding the proposed development.
“Regardless, SEA continues to assert that the consultation process is deeply fawed because
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insufcient time was given to concerned stakeholders to properly review and get expert advice on the enormous amount of information that Yntegra fled in this process, much of which seems to contradict itself and other Yntegra statements,” said the Alliance.
Yntegra Group, the Miami-based developers of the proposed Rosewood Exuma resort on East Sampson Cay, announced last November it would fle a revised site plan with the Town Planning Committee following community feedback and
ongoing controversy surrounding aspects of the project.
The project has drawn sustained criticism from the neighbouring Turtlegrass Resort and Island Club, whose owner, Bob Coughlin, is part of the Save Exuma Alliance (SEA).
Opponents have said the Rosewood resort is “vastly oversized” and warned that the development of a service dock in Sampson Cay’s north bay would destroy coral reefs, disrupt tidal fow and harm marine life.
Yntegra Group, which is headed by Felipe MacLean, has consistently rejected
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and pushed back against these arguments. The Miami-based developer has asserted that its project will have a $1.6bn impact over 20 years, translating into $80m per year, along with an $834m boost to Bahamian economic output (GDP) and $336m in additional income for Bahamian workers over the same period.
This is equivalent to an average $41.7m GDP impact, and $16.8m in extra income, over that 20-year span. The increase in government taxes is forecast at $176m over two decades, with the Rosewood Exuma developer also projecting it will help create “533 full-time equivalent jobs annually” in construction, tourism and other industries.
The frst public meeting on the revised site plan took place in Black Point earlier this month, with a second scheduled for Friday in George Town before the Town Planning Committee.
Bahamas teams with seaplane carrier on Bimini day-trip plan
THE Ministry of Tourism has partnered with a seaplane carrier to launch 25-minute day-trips from Florida to Bimini.
The ministry, in a statement, said it has teamed with Tropic Ocean Airways to promote a venture that promies visitors they can fy into Bimini for the day and be back in Florida for dinner the same day.
The initiative, which will be available on every Saturday starting from February 21, coincides with The Bahamas’ role as destination sponsor of this year’s South Beach Wine & Food Festival. The new Bimini day trip will be ofcially launched there.
Guests arrive at Tropic’s Fort Lauderdale seaplane terminal just 30 minutes
before departure, take of in the mornin and land in Bimini before 9am. They will be able to spend a full day, between fve to six hours on the island, and return to South Florida by early evening without the expense and planning involved with hotels and ferries. The aim is to show visitors just how close The Bahamas is and the ease with which it can be reached.
"This partnership with Tropic Ocean Airways represents more than just a new fight path; it’s a total reimagining of how accessible our islands can be,” said Chester Cooper, deputy prime minister and minister of tourism, investments and aviation.
“By providing the opportunity to get from South Florida to The Bahamas in a mere 25 minutes, we are removing the traditional barriers to international travel. We’re providing a seamless, premium gateway that allows our guests to prioritise their time while still experiencing the full depth of Bahamian hospitality."
“You don’t need a week of or a complex travel plan to go to The Bahamas,” said Tropic Ocean Airways.
“You can wake up in South Florida, have lunch in The Bahamas and be back home for dinner. This is about taking something people think requires pre-planning and is expensive, and making it incredibly easy.”
Strong contractor interest in Abaco Club expansion
AN Abaco-based resort community has unveiled its development plans for 2026 and beyond to local contractors in a bid to ensure the economic benefts remain on the island.
The Abaco Club, in a statement, said it recently hosted a comprehensive briefng session for Bahamian construction principals as part of its commitment to economic participation and empowerment among local residents.
Held at Marsh Harbour’s Town Centre Plaza, the event drew a strong response from Abaco contractors with attendance exceeding venue capacity amid standing room only throughout the presentation.
Representatives from The Abaco Club’s development and construction teams provided updates on forthcoming project phases, anticipated work packages and the structured pre-qualifcation process required for contractors seeking to participate in upcoming bidding opportunities.
Bill Chrysler, the Abaco Club’s vice-president of operations, said: “We pride ourselves on being true partners with the Abaco community. We are committed to building with Bahamian labour, with Bahamian contractors. We want the Abacos to grow
and succeed. We are partners here on the island with all of you.”
More than 50 contractors registered on-site to receive future bid notifcations. Paul Lashley, the Abaco Club’s regional director of construction, said he wanted to see as many Bahamian contractors as possible share in the economic “pie”.
“There are people sitting in this room who have built and grown their businesses by working with us, and I hope that will continue. My frst mandate when I joined this company was to help create a system where Bahamians are leading the work on this project. I know the skill-set to produce exceptional work exists in The Bahamas, and it exists right here in Abaco,” he said.
Phylicia Woods-Hanna, the Government’s director of investments, as well as Claire Basden from the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC), were also present to support contractors with the pre-qualifcation process, providing guidance related to required documentation including National Insurance Board (NIB) compliance and other administrative formalities that must be met to ensure eligibility for upcoming work packages.
Kirk Cornish and John Pinder II, the two MPs for Abaco, were also in attendance. During the session, contractors received guidance on submission timelines, eligibility criteria and the evaluation framework that will govern procurement for future works.
The Abaco Club emphasised its focus on transparency, fairness and the prioritisation of qualifed Bahamian participation as development progresses. Interested contractors operating in Abaco who wish to be considered for future opportunities are invited to submit formal expressions of interest via e-mail to construction@theabacoclub. com.
Submissions will support the ongoing pre-qualifcation review process ahead of the release of new construction packages tied to the Abaco Club’s next phase of expansion as permitting for this phase is still ongoing.
Persons who may have difculty in creating an e-mail address or flling out these forms are asked to reach out to Abaco’s SBDC representative, Claire Basden, at 242 357 9431 for assistance.
PAUL LASHLEY SPEAKING TO CONTRACTORS
DIRECTOR WOODS-HANNA SPEAKING TO CONTRACTORS
MP JOHN PINDER, Bill Chrysler, Andrew Smith at the townhall.
Activists warning of whale risk from SpaceX landing
BY ANNELIA NIXON Tribune Business Reporter
ENVIRONMENTAL
advocates yesterday warned of the risk of whale strandings due to the SpaceX rocket booster landing scheduled for today through February 24.
The Bahamas Marine Mammal Research Organisation (BMMRO), a Bahamian nonproft organisation promoting conservation of marine mammals through research and education, in a statement pointed to a dead beaked whale whose fatality coincided with the
last booster landing that occurred in February 2025.
“SpaceX will be landing its Falcon 9 boosters in Exuma Sound, a deep-water basin that serves as prime habitat for beaked whales - species known to be especially sensitive to human-generated noise,” that statement read.
“Because Falcon 9 booster landings produce intense acoustic disturbances, the plan raises concerns about potential impacts on these protected marine mammals.
“Given that a beaked whale was found dead coincident with the frst booster landing last February, scientists at the Bahamas Marine
Pintard hits at PM over energy reform disclosure
By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
THE Opposition’s leader yesterday attacked Prime Minister Philip Davis KC over the undisclosed New Providence energy grid outsourcing agreement with Bahamas Grid Company and its operating partner, Pike Electrical.
Michael Pintard questioed whether the Prime Minister has “challenges with memory” or is deliberately misleading the country, arguing that Mr Davis was “clearly wrong” to claim all energy reform contracts had been laid in Parliament, insisting key agreements central to the initiative remain unseen.
He said The Bahamas cannot aford uncertainty at the highest level, arguing that “the CEO of the country” must be credible when addressing agreements of such magnitude.
“It’s not true what he said. We know that the transmission and distribution deal has not been put on the table. We’ve not seen a deal that he’s entered into
around generation as well. So no, the most substantive portions of what he has considered the centrepiece of his energy reform, we have not seen those documents,” said Mr Pintard.
“While he was speaking, he did not bother to factcheck himself. And so we are concerned. He’s the CEO of the country. You must be able to rely on the word of the CEO of the country, especially when he’s being rude and condescending to those of us who are more qualifed at this point than him to administer the afairs of this country,” said Mr Pintard.
He added that Mr Davis’ claim that all energy reform contracts had been laid in Parliament was directly contradicted by JoBeth Coleby-Davis, minister of energy and transport.
Mr Pintard said that while the Prime Minister insisted the agreements were already tabled, Mrs Coleby-Davis later acknowledged in a radio interview that the fnal documents have not yet been publicly released and would be uploaded “soon”,
Mammal Research Organisation (BMMRO) reiterate their concern that additional whales may die during the future planned landings.
“BMMRO asks the public in Exuma, Eleuthera and Cat Island to please keep an eye out for distressed whales. If you see a whale close to shore or in shallow water, or fnd a dead whale, immediately report your sighting to The Bahamas Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline (242) 805-4585.”
The Bahamas Port Department, meanwhile, issued a notice to mariners advising them to avoid a list of hazardous areas. “This is a safety advisory notice for
MICHAEL PINTARD
with only a summary currently available.
“Those two statements cannot both be true,” said Mr Pintard. “The truth is simple. The Pike agreement has never been tabled in Parliament. It has never been fully disclosed to the Bahamian people, and instead of correcting the record, the Prime Minister chose to insult anyone who asked for transparency.”
Mr Pintard said the episode fts what he described as a broader pattern by the Government when handling major national matters. He pointed to the uncertainty surrounding the Grand Lucayan deal, where the public has been told to “wait and see” as deadlines pass without clarity, and argued that the same approach is now being taken with energy reform.
The Opposition leader said the restructuring of
vessels operating in Exuma Sound, Bahamas, during the period of February 17 through 24, 2026,” the notice read.
“During the mentioned period, Starlink G10-36 will be landed in Exuma Sound, Bahamas. All vessels are strongly advised to avoid the hazardous areas defned during the specifc dates.” Airlines are also keeping an eye on the landings with Bahamasair monitoring the launch of the SpaceX rocket, prepared to adjust its fights if necessary.
“Bahamasair is aware of the launch scheduled for tomorrow,” a statement from the national national
the transmission and distribution network will afect every Bahamian household and business for decades, and warned that such an agreement cannot be shielded from scrutiny.
“Transparency is not optional when public assets are involved,” said Mr Pintard. “Accountability is not a favour granted by government; it is a duty owed to the people. It’s simple: The time for excuses is over. Philip, tell the truth.”
Mr Davis told reporters on Tuesday that all contractual arrangements tied to the Government’s energy reform have been made public. He dismissed concerns about transparency, saying those claiming not to know simply “are lazy and want to be spoon-fed”.
“All of the contractual arrangements that were entered into in respect to our transformation of our energy sector have been made public. They’re all laid in Parliament,” said Mr Davis.
“And if they wish, they can just go through them and ask any questions they wish about what has been agreed. It’s laid in Parliament. So this question about not knowing — they don’t know because they are lazy and want to be spoon-fed.”
carrier said. “Our operations team is closely monitoring the situation to see if it will have any impact on fight operations. We are prepared to adjust any fights should that become necessary.” Another Bahamian Airline, Western Air, said it does not have fights at that time. Sarah Swainson, the private charters and business development manager for Makers Air, which services The Bahamas, said the airline has a 4pm departure out of Eleuthera scheduled
but does not anticipate any service disruptions.
SpaceX has also been known to conduct its landing exercises close to Eleuthera. Ms Swainson noted that Makers Air has nothing scheduled for Exuma today.
“We will be departing late afternoon from North Eleuthera, Andros, Berry Islands and Long Island tomorrow with no disruptions anticipated,” she told Tribune Business.
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‘Promises made are promises kept’, asserts gaming magnate
provided for the level of investment that will be required, the construction timeline or the amount of construction and permanent jobs that will be created.
However, Mr Jacobs confrmed he had “recently shared my thoughts” with the Government and received “quite supportive feedback”, although it is unclear whether any formal application has been made for the necessary approvals to the Bahamas Investment Authority (BIA) and other regulatory agencies.
Besides the tourism-related amenities, Mr Jacobs said his current plans also involve developing a “sea to sea” community pathway accessible to Bahamians and residents, as well as visitors, seemingly implying that the project could stretch across the entire width of the island - from the Atlantic to the Caribbean sea coast - as some sources have suggested. The US gaming developer is also promising to “restore” public vehicle circulation, and access, to French Leave Beach.
And Mr Jacobs, whose Jacobs Entertainment owns and operates resorts and
casinos in US destinations such as Reno and other Nevada cities, plus Colorado and Louisiana, said elected ofcials in such locations can confrm that when he unveils developments it is “promises made and promises kept”. This newspaper reached out to Mr Jacobs after Eric Carey, the ex-Bahamas National Trust (BNT) director and now-Eleuthera resident, in a letter published on Monday revealed that Governor’s Harbour residents were becoming increasingly anxious - and asking more and more questions - as talk about a major development and investment project swirled in the community.
The project and developer were not named, but Tribune Business has been tracking Mr Jacobs and his plans for central Eleuthera for some months after learning late last year he had been acquiring multiple real estate parcels in the Governor’s Harbour area as part of assembling the site and required acreage needed to accommodate his plans.
Revealing that himself and his family have regularly visited The Bahamas for more than half-a-century, and own a home in the
Governor’s Harbour area, Mr Jacobs confrmed he has indeed been assembling the necessary land. “Over the last few years, I have also acquired several large parcels of land in the Governor’s Harbour area,” he told Tribune Business.
“As a developer and former elected ofcial, I focus on development projects that have the potential to create public sector-private sector win-wins, focusing on projects that can improve the quality of life for the community at large. In one of my current developments, for example, I am creating over 150 afordable workforce housing units.
Explaining the rationale for his investment interest, Mr Jacobs added: “Central Eleuthera faces some serious quality of life issues. For example, the power currently goes out in central Eleuthera several times a day, running water is not dependable, public access to French Leave Beach is minimal, there are no safe public pedestrian pathways along the heavily-travelled Queens Highway and, most importantly, jobs and afordable housing opportunities for young people to return to the
centre of this Family Island are scarce.
“I believe that tourist-oriented development in central Eleuthera can serve as a rising tide to lift all boats. As is always the case, what should that tide look like and how big should it be? Those are decisions that the Government of the Bahamas and the residents of central Eleuthera will make.”
Having thus promised that local residents and the Eleuthera community will not be sidelined or ignored in his plans, Mr Jacobs said: “In the months ahead I will be sharing several tourist-oriented development ideas with the community.
“These ideas include the creation of four to fve new ‘lock and leave’ neighbourhoods, a community pathway providing sea-tosea pedestrian circulation available to all, a small resort with several restaurants, a mega yacht marina, a small boutique casino and afordable workforce housing.
“Additionally, my plans include restoring public vehicle circulation along French Leave Beach, as well as several donations to the people of The Bahamas, including two new public access points to French Leave Beach. All these improvements proposed are designed to increase the social, economic and job-creating opportunities available to the local community in central Eleuthera.”
Mr Jacobs made no mention of developing an 18-hole golf course, which several sources have alleged is another key component of the proposed project. Local residents are also concerned that, once again,
the central government and Nassau are seeking to impose their development vision on Family Islands without those communities having any input into whether, and how, they will beneft economically and socially.
“While I have only recently shared my thoughts with the Government of the Bahamas, the feedback I have received has been quite supportive,” Mr Jacobs said. “I recognise that my role in such a proposed public/private partnership (PPP) involves listening carefully to the voices of the community.
“Many issues need to be focused on, including environmental and sustainability issues, which are very important. I look forward to presenting my ideas to Clay Sweeting, [central and south Eleuthera MP], and the residents of central Eleuthera in the months ahead.
“Additionally, I am currently working on an $800m, eight square block revitalisation of approximately one-third of downtown Reno, Nevada. You may want to reach out to Reno mayor Hillary Schieve. She is the past president of the US conference of mayors. She can give you a little insight into who I am. Most importantly, she can confrm that with Jef Jacobs, promises made are promises kept.”
The US developer pledged that his proposed public-private partnership will be “a win-win development in central Eleuthera”, and said: “For the last 50 years my family and I have been frequent visitors to Eleuthera, whether it be fshing in the waters between Eleuthera and Cat Island, vacationing on Harbour Island or sightseeing in Governor’s Harbour. We have always enjoyed wonderful encounters with many Eleuthera residents, as well as the relaxed and peaceful life ofered on the Family Islands.”
Mr Sweeting, also minister of works and Family Island afairs, confrmed he was aware that Mr Jacobs
has been acquiring multiple real estate parcels in the Governor’s Harbour area and is working on producing a development/ investment proposal that can be submitted to the Government.
“I do know, and have heard, that Jef Jacobs has been purchasing land parcels,” he told Tribune Business. “I do know they were working on a proposal, but it is nor a fully developed proposal or anything of that nature. They’ve been speaking to the people on the ground, which is normal with any proposed development, and he’s been purchasing parcels for two years.”
Mr Sweeting, though, reassured that any development or investment proposals presented by Mr Jacobs would frst have to obtain public feedback, and undergo consultation at forums such as Town Hall meetings, before the Government’s planning and environmental regulators can issue the necessary approvals.
Promising that his constituents will not be left out, and will be able to vent their concerns and views, he added: “I think they [Mr Jacobs] are putting their plans together for the Government to have a look at. I think it’s a preliminary plan they are putting together, and if they approach the Government it will tell them to have Town Hall meetings - the same as Windermere Island with the development they are proposing. They have had a town meeting in that regard.
“The community will have to have its say. They have to do that before the National Economic Council (the Cabinet) will even consider them.” As a result, Mr Sweeting argued that the letter issued by Mr Carey was premature as no approvals process has begun, adding: “I think Eric Carey was raising alarm before it gets to that point. I think they are raising alarm or concerns before it gets to that point.”
Chair con dent it will reach Parliament before election
Parliament before the next general election. “In my honest opinion, we probably wouldn’t make the end of the month, but for some very good reasons,” he added.
“When we look at the results of the consultations we’ve done, and the recommendations that have come in, it is obvious to us that we still need to do a little bit more work to strengthen the Bill. In fact, the general consensus is that the Bill is a little bit weaker and that we can strengthen it, and
so we’ve taken those comments seriously.” Mr Stubbs said the committee has not yet examined specifc policy issues, including matters related to the Freedom of Information Act, as its immediate focus remains on advancing the legislation to formally establish the Institute.
“As it relates to the Freedom of Information Act, we haven’t looked at any of the specifc issues in the plan as yet because we will be focusing on this Bill. Once the Bill is passed, then we will go back to the public and begin more consultations to fnd out from them
what their priorities are, and those are the kinds of things we’re working on,” said Mr Stubbs.
Michael Pintard, the Opposition’s leader, stressed that transparency will be critical to the National Development Plan’s success. He said the Institute would not be in a position to fully execute its mandate if stakeholders lack access to the data and information needed to guide decision-making.
“The reality is, the ability of the Freedom of Information Act to impact this programme is very strong, which is why it is important
shortage. “Eleuthera has high employment.
for it to be implemented. Because if you’re talking about transparency in governance, it is important to have access to information,” said Mr Pintard. He also voiced support for the National Development Plan, stressing that long-term national planning must withstand changes in government.
“We have sufered many setbacks in The Bahamas, and part of it has been interruption of initiatives, interruption in terms of policy, interruption in terms of legislation, often-times with the change of government that’s no longer
environmentally and fnancially sustainable.
committed to what they put in place,” said Mr Pintard. He added that the National Development Plan would help ensure continuity and place pressure on political organisations to commit to priorities identifed by the Bahamian people. Support for the initiative is also being provided by the Inter-American Development Bank. Shirley Gayle, the IDB’s country representative for The Bahamas, said the bank’s support includes both fnancial resources and technical expertise to help ensure the planning process
is evidence-based and sustainable.
“We bring fnancial resources, but we also bring technical expertise, whether that expertise resides within the IDB itself, because we are a very large knowledge institution,” said Ms Gayle.
“That could mean research, advisory support and lessons from other countries and jurisdictions that have gone through this before. We bring data and support in providing the material, the information and the methodology to help the Government make evidence-based decisions.”
Noting that this stemmed from the so-called ‘anchor’ project for every island strategy, frst initiated by the second Ingraham administration in the late 1990s before being extended further by its Christie successor, he said all have been seduced by promises of multi-billion dollar investments and the creation of hundreds of jobs without checking if they will really empower Bahamians.
Noting that the developer has confrmed to this newspaper the “snippets of information from early conversations Mr Jacobs would have have with people”, the ex-BNT chief said he was “not surprised” at the assertion the Government is “quite supportive” of such ideas given the scale of development that is being touted. He argued that while this may “look good on paper and on election platforms, it doesn’t translate anywhere in our country into real Bahamian empowerment”.
And Mr Carey also pushed back at assertions from Clay Sweeting, the central and south Eleuthera MP, that his letter raising concerns over Mr Jacobs’ plan was premature because no formal approvals process has begun and public consultation would have to take place. He, though, argued that public awareness must be raised early on because too often major investment projects are presented to Bahamians as a “fait accompli” and after they have already been approved by the Government.
“Our government, across administrations including this one, they have a
tendency to go for large developments,” Mr Carey told this newspaper. “You hear Chester Cooper, the minister responsible for investments, talking about the billions and billions of dollars of investment. These large projects add to the appetite of the Government, which is for larger and larger developments for what they feel may be a huge economic impact.
“I’m not surprised the Government feels that way [but] we’ve seen this play out before. It never works in the Family Islands.” One such example is the Resorts World Bimini resort, together with its casino, which was recently revealed to be carrying hundreds of millions of dollars in debt and other liabilities on its balance sheet amid a bitter legal dispute between its two owners, RAV Bahamas (Gerardo Capo and his family) and Genting.
“The Government likes to embrace these large developments notwithstanding the fact there are very few examples which show they have been successful in really benefting local communities in ownership and empowerment,”
Mr Carey told Tribune Business. “The examples we have across our country are quite the opposite. The developer wins, most of the money leaves the country in large real estate sales.”
He added that many of the “hundreds of jobs” that a project such as the one proposed by Mr Jacobs will require will not be flled by Eleuthera residents. “They are going to have to bring people in,” Mr Carey said, noting that the island is already sufering from an afordable housing
“If you talk to people in the construction industry they’re fnding it difcult to fnd Bahamians. A lot of my friends in construction will tell you they have to depend on Haitian labour to execute the projects they have bid on because they cannot fnd Bahamian labour.
“The Government approves projects that look good on paper, look good on an election platform, but don’t translate anywhere in our country into Bahamian empowerment.” Mr Carey, asserting that the concerns of Governor’s Harbour and Eleuthera residents are “justifed” based on Mr Jacobs’ comments, said the latter has given no indication that the “public-private partnership” he is proposing would include broad-based Bahamian investor ownership.
He suggested that it likely meant the Government will have an ownership interest, and challenged whether this would be valued and based on the amount of Crown Land, which is held on trust for the beneft of the Bahamian people, being contributed to a Governor’s Harbour development. Mr Carey said Crown Land on Eleuthera is already “scarce”, especially given the demand for afordable housing by Bahamians.
He pledged to now reach out and contact Mr Jacobs, and see if he will keep to his promises to involve Governor’s Harbour residents and local communities at every step of his plans, taking into account their concerns and views, to ensure it remains
And Mr Carey said he will also seek confrmation of whether the plans include development of an 18-hole golf course, and the use of Crown Land for such a purpose, arguing that this would not represent the best use of such assets while also potentially causing environmental harm to the water table and by ocean run-of. He was also not alone in his concerns.
Another Eleuthera resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Tribune Business: “The people in Governor’s Harbour feel this is not the right scale and not the right tone for what made Eleuthera what it is. He [Mr Jacobs] has been buying up a lot of land in the Governor’s Harbour area. There is a lot of concern. How do we keep what we have without throwing it by the wayside.
“This is a situation where it would really not be appropriate to jump at something that would be taking place right in the historic settlement of Governor’s
Harbour. This is the seat of the frst government of The Bahamas. This is an historic community. There needs to be some consideration of what the social impact from such a large-scale development would be, and the infrastructure. Eleuthera is already struggling with water and power, and these kinds of things - mega resorts and golf coursesare not exactly conducive to that. As a country, we have to get beyond these developments that are imposed on local Bahamian communities.”
And Casuarina McKinney- Lambert, executive director of the Bahamas Reef Environmental Educational Foundation (BREEF), and another Eleuthera resident, told Tribune Business: “People in Central Eleuthera are understandably concerned about a proposal for a large scale golf course, mega yacht marina and casino development that could fundamentally change the character and environment of the historic community
of Governor’s Harbour. Development must align with what is socially and environmentally sustainable.”
Mr Carey, meanwhile, responding to Mr Sweeting, said: “I would say we need to ask questions before any decisions are fnalised. By the time most major developments make it before the community with issues of density, infrastructure impact, impact on workers, access to public beaches, they are already locked in in Heads of Agreements.
“What happens is it comes before community members as a fait accompli. It is largely put to people as ‘take it or leave it’. That’s how it works. I would challenge Mr Sweeting, the director of investments, to prove otherwise where a major development is brought to the people, concerns are expressed and changes made according to the concerns and discussion with the community.”
Some sta uncertain over payment timing
“Please be advised that all staf will receive payment under Section 26A of the Employment (Amendment) Act 2017 and contractual agreement entitlements upon completion of this exercise. The redundancy exercise will be completed by February 27, 2026.
“Further, we advise that the number of employees to be made redundant is 279, which includes 94 of your members. The breakdown of union members is 53 fulltime managerial staf and 41 contractual managerial staf.” High-placed government sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, yesterday confrmed that the February 27, 2026, deadline for completing the redundancy and termination exercise is accurate.
Some Grand Lucayan staf members, though, yesterday appeared unaware of the payout and severance date, only telling Tribune Business they had heard “rumours” they may be paid what was due to them on or before March 13, 2026. Philip Davis KC, in addressing last week’s Grand Bahama Business
Outlook, said the Bahamas Investment Authority, Ministry of Finance, Department of Labour and the Ofce of the Attorney General had been working to settle the combined $17m owed to the resort’s employees and vendors “in a way that honours legal entitlements and protects public funds”. The confrmed termination deadline may provide Grand Lucayan staf with some certainty as to their fate, and its timing, giving that they have twice gone fve weeks’ without receiving due salaries and other benefts during late 2025 and again in early 2026. And the move may also signal that the Government may, fnally, be getting closer to sealing the Grand Lucayan’s sale via the deal with Concord Wilshire.
Tribune Business understands that the Miami-headquartered developer and its partners are in the fnal stages of what they hope is agreement on the reconfguration of the Grand Lucayan so that everybody’s plans and needs are accommodated.
Concord Wilshire has always signalled that it will function as a
Minister pledges owners to still obtain $2.8m valuation
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assets belonging to struckof companies must be “held on trust by the Treasurer” for 20 years to see if they are claimed by their owners/shareholders. Only after this 20-year period expires do such assets vest in the Treasurer on behalf of the Bahamian people so, to avoid falling foul of this legal impediment, the Government has invoked its compulsory acquisition powers.
Mrs Moxey, promising that the 13 Bazaar owners will still get the compensation and purchase price already negotiated, said:
“The Government thought it was necessary to do the compulsory acquisition even though we are still paying the tenants because there is a Companies Act [reform] that was implemented in 2019 that the property will not be fully vested in the
Treasurer unless we went through this process.
“So, yes, we have been negotiating with the majority having already agreed, and we are going to be paying them the appraised value, which was $2.8m, for the Bazaar. Then there was the issue with the Port (Grand Bahama Port Authority), which had indicated those Bazaar owners had owed some maintenance fees. That has already been negotiated as well.
“We are moving full steam ahead with it. The owners will be paid. So it’s just a process of ensuring that all the ‘i’s’ are dotted and the ‘t’s’ are crossed, and the Government will fully own the Bazaar once it’s done.”
Tribune Business revealed that the property’s owners were blindsided by Tuesday’s publication of a full-page advertisement detailing the Government’s plans to use its powers under the Acquisition of Land Act
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that RONEL JOACHIM of Miller’s Height, Carmichael Road Nassau, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 19th day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that WILNISE LUBIN of Podoleo Street, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twentyeight days from the 12th day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that TELSON FRANCOIS of Alice Bimini, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 19th day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
master developer, entering into contracts with diferent operating partners to manage and run separate parts of its project. Tribune Business understands that, provided a mutually satisfactory agreement is reached, two of its partners will be Disney Cruise Lines and Mediterranean Shipping Company’s (MSC) cruise arm - both operating their own amenities, thought to be water-based adventure parks catering to their respective passengers.
A Hilton-branded hotel will act as the revived Grand Lucayan’s anchor, while Tribune Business has previously reported that renowned Australian golfer, Greg Norman’s, company was being tapped to manage the upgraded golf courses. Other brand and operating partners will be hired to oversee assets such as the diferent hotels, the casino and marina.
Pinning down these components likely requires signifcant time and legal resources from both Concord Wilshire and the Government, which may have been a factor behind the drawn-out wait to close the Grand Lucayan’s sale
to compel the Bazaar’s sale because the 11.541-acre site “is needed for a public purpose” - the construction of the much-touted African-Caribbean Marketplace.
In response, Mrs Moxey said she had spoken to the attorney dealing with the Bazaar issue at the Attorney General’s Ofce, and who had informed her that “the majority of the owners” would have been contacted about the Government’s compulsory acquisition plans but maybe not all.
“It’s not that the Government isn’t paying,” the minister added. “We are still continuing with the agreement that was made. It’s just to clear up that issue with the Companies Act where property has been struck of the register. Because they were struck-of, the Government would have had to wait 20 years since the time [it closed the deal] in order for the property to be fully vested in the Government.”
Describing the Bazaar’s revival, and its transformation into the proposed Afro-Caribbean Marketplace, as “so important”, Mrs
that has frustrated resort staf as well as many residents and businesses on Grand Bahama.
Tribune Business previously reported that the conveyances, transferring title and ownership of the Grand Lucayan from the Government’s special purpose vehicle (SPV), Lucayan Renewal Holdings, to Concord Wilshire’s own Bahamian-domiciled entity, were completed prior to the much-touted Heads of Agreement signing in May 2025.
It is also thought that the resort’s acquisition has been structured as a so-called “take-down purchase”, meaning the $120m sales price will be paid in installments by Concord Wilshire. As the developer demolishes each new part of the existing Grand Lucayan, a new portion of the purchase price will be paid to the Government. The $120m has not been paid yet, while the transition and hand-over to the developer has been a protracted afair.
This newspaper understands that there has been some reluctance by the Government to grant all the tax breaks and other investment
Moxey said: “It’s been about 20 years with the Bazaar in this state, and for the Government to take it on and negotiate it, no one has really dealt with this legacy issue. We’ve taken it on, and it’s going to be a game changing issue for Grand Bahama island.
“As you know, we’re developing this Afro-Caribbean Marketplace and logistics centre that’s going to [enhance] the tourist experience on the island. So we’re looking for it to be able to complement Celebration Key and the development that’s happening with MSC [Mediterranean Shipping Company] in the harbour in order to bring those visitors out of the cruise port and into these communities, so we’re looking forward to it and think we’ve made tremendous progress,” Mrs Moxey said.
“It’s taken some time because, again, it’s a legacy issue. We have 13 property owners in the Bazaar, and then we have Harcourt and the Royal Oasis property. That’s a part of this development as well, so it’s taken
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that DANIEL FREDERIC of Janelle Drive Bamboo Town, Nassau, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 19th day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that JEAN LOUIS ALTES of Carmichael Road, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that ENISE DEMELIEN of P.O. Box SB-51724, Sequoia Street East, Nassau, The Bahamas, is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
incentives that the buyer is seeking. Concord Wilshire is thought to be arguing that it needs signifcant concessions given that it is trying to revive a stopover tourism market that sources say is “100 percent dead”, but the Government’s concern is understood to be that it would have to give the same tax breaks to other major investors such as Atlantis and Baha Mar, which have ‘most favoured nation’ clauses in their own Heads of Agreement that state they are to be treated no less favourably than other resort investors.
“I understand the frustration. For years, that property has been shorthand for drift,” said Mr Davis at the Grand Bahama Business Outlook. “In May 2025, a Heads of Agreement was signed with the Concord Wilshire group. Since then, government and developer have been working to secure the right branding partners and to remediate serious mould issues that could have compromised the entire transaction….
“I will not pretend this has been easy. It has not. Our aim is a functioning, viable resort that creates jobs and
some time in negotiation and getting to this place. I’m excited to say progress has been made and we’re moving full steam ahead.” The Davis administration has acted despite “98 percent” of the Bazaar’s owners, who include the likes of the Bahamas Hotel, Catering and Allied Workers Union, John Bull and the Chee-A-Tow family, agreeing to the $2.8m purchase price and the accompanying sale terms and conditions.
And the move coincides with the tabling of a Parliamentary resolution, yet to be debated by either house, to approve the Government guaranteeing a $1.86m loan from the Africa Export-Import Bank to fnance the Marketplace’s development. The borrower is named as ACMLC Grand Bahama Ltd, a private company incorporated under the Companies Act, which is 100 percent owned by the Government.
The International Bazaar, which has steadily deteriorated ever since the Royal Oasis resort that supplied a signifcant proportion of its customer base closed in 2004, sufered further blows as a result of two fres that further devastated what remained of many buildings.
Mrs Moxey said of the Government’s Afro-Caribbean Marketplace plans in 2023: “Not only will the marketplace promote and distribute African and Caribbean products, but it will also ofer a taste of Africa and the Caribbean, making it an appealing tourist attraction.
“In the marketplace, we envision seamless connectivity for trade between Africa and the Caribbean through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),
confdence. You deserve both: Honesty and delivery. You will get both.” The Government budgeted no funding for the Grand Lucayan in the 2025-2026 Budget, seemingly in anticipation of the Concord Wilshire deal closing prior to the fscal year’s start which, together with the Public Treasury’s tight cash fows, might explain the recent staf payment difculties.
The Government is thought to have been subsidising the Grand Lucayan’s operations by between $1.2m to $1.5m per month ever since it acquired the resort from CK Property Holdings, Hutchison Whampoa’s real estate arm, seven-and-a-half years ago. Some $17.882m was used for this purpose during the 2022-2023 Budget year and, during the frst nine months of the following fscal period, $16.632m out of the $17m allocated was spent on subsidising the Grand Lucayan.
A further $17m was estimated for the 20242025 fscal year, with some $15.888m already spent during the nine months to end-March 2025. This pace placed the resort on track to require a $21m-plus subsidy for the full 2024-2025 fscal year, meaning it would overshoot its Budget allocation by $4m.
with the Caribbean as the sixth region, and the added advantage of a 230-squaremile free-trade zone ofering tax concessions on Grand Bahama.”
Using Grand Bahama’s proximity to the US, the marketplace would provide strategic opportunities for value-added manufacturing, transshipment, distribution and logistics. “This vision, however, goes beyond mere trade,” Mrs Moxey said.
“It represents the culmination of a world-class experience, showcasing the rich cultures of Africa and the Caribbean. The African-Caribbean Marketplace will become the home of ‘All things African and Caribbean’. It will feature a ‘Bahamas Bazaar’ representing each inhabited island of The Bahamas.
“With its conceptual design, including an amphitheatre, featuring a performance arts theatre, African and Caribbean-favoured concessions and unique architecture refecting the authenticity of our cultures, we aim to create a space that resonates with the spirit of Africa and the Caribbean.”
The Government, meanwhile, has also moved to improve accessibility and transportation connectivity to the planned Afro-Caribbean Marketplace site through another compulsory land purchase - this time the 4.435-acre site that presently blocks-of West Sunrise Highway and prevents it from linking West Atlantic Drive and the Mall Drive. It had been closed of by Driftwood Freeportm, not Harcourt Developments, the former operator of the Royal Oasis.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that CEDRIC JONATHAN FERGUSON of 7840 Camino Real, Miami, Florida 33143 is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twentyeight days from the 12th day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that DAVID BRUCE THOMSON of #4 Gambier Court, Gambier Heights, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 12th day of February, 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
Public health, green groups sue EPA over repeal of rule supporting climate protections
By MATTHEW DALY Associated Press
A COALITION of health and environmental groups sued the Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday, challenging the rescinding of a scientifc fnding that has been the central basis for U.S. action to regulate greenhouse gas emissions and fght climate change.
A rule fnalized by the EPA last week revoked a 2009 government declaration known as the endangerment fnding that determined that carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases threaten public health and welfare.
The Obama-era fnding is the legal underpinning of nearly all climate regulations under the Clean Air Act for motor vehicles, power plants and other pollution sources that are heating the planet.
The repeal eliminates all greenhouse gas emissions standards for cars and trucks and could unleash a broader undoing of climate regulations on stationary sources such as power plants and oil and gas facilities, experts say.
The legal challenge, fled in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, asserts that the EPA's rescission of the endangerment fnding is unlawful. The 2009 fnding supported common sense safeguards to cut climate pollution, including from cars and trucks, the lawsuit says. Clean vehicle standards imposed by the Biden administration were set to "deliver the single biggest cut to U.S. carbon pollution in history, save lives and save Americans hardearned money on gas,'' the coalition said in fling the case.
After nearly two decades of scientifc evidence supporting the 2009 fnding, "the agency cannot credibly claim that the body of work is now incorrect,'' said Brian Lynk, a senior attorney at the Environmental Law & Policy Center.
"This reckless and legally untenable decision creates immediate uncertainty for businesses, guarantees prolonged legal battles and undermines the stability of federal climate regulations," Lynk said.
The Supreme Court ruled, in a landmark 2007 case, that carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases are "air pollutants" under the Clean Air Act. Since the high court's decision, in a case known as Massachusetts v. EPA, courts have uniformly rejected legal challenges to the endangerment fnding, including a 2023 decision by the D.C. appeals court.
EPA spokeswoman Brigit Hirsch said Wednesday that the agency "carefully considered and reevaluated the legal foundation of the 2009 Endangerment Finding" in light of recent court decisions, including a 2022 Supreme Court ruling that limited how the clean air law can be used to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from power plants.
"EPA is bound by the laws established by Congress, including under the Clean Air Act,'' she said.
"Congress never intended to give EPA authority to impose (greenhouse gas) regulations for cars and trucks."
The dispute is likely to end up back before the Supreme Court, which now is far more conservative than in 2007.
Trump administration claims the fnding 'strangled' business
The lawsuit was brought by groups including the American Public Health Association, American Lung Association, Alliance of Nurses for a Healthy Environment and Physicians for Social Responsibility, along with environmental groups such as the Center for Biological Diversity, Conservation Law Foundation, Environmental Defense Fund, Natural Resources Defense Council and Sierra Club.
The suit named the EPA and its administrator Lee Zeldin as defendants.
President Donald Trump said in announcing the repeal that it was "the single largest deregulatory action in American history, by far," while Zeldin called the endangerment fnding "the Holy Grail of federal regulatory overreach."
The endangerment fnding "led to trillions of dollars in regulations that strangled entire sectors of the United States economy, including the American auto industry," Zeldin said. "The Obama and Biden administrations used it to steamroll into existence a left-wing wish list of costly climate policies, electric vehicle mandates and other requirements that assaulted consumer choice and afordability."
Environmental groups described the move as the single biggest attack in U.S. history against federal authority to address climate change. Evidence backing up the endangerment fnding has only grown stronger in the 17 years since it was approved, they said.
Endangerment fnding spurred new climate regulations Under the Clean Air Act, EPA is legally required to limit emissions of any air pollutant that causes or contributes to "air pollution that may reasonably be anticipated to endanger public health or welfare."
In its 2007 ruling, the Supreme Court told EPA to determine, based on the science, if greenhouse gas pollution endangers human health and welfare. EPA made that determination in 2009, which led to new standards for vehicles. It built on that fnding when issuing other standards.
EPA's repeal of the endangerment fnding, along with the elimination of safeguards to limit vehicle emissions, "marks a complete dereliction of the agency's mission to protect people's health and its legal obligations under the Clean Air Act,'' said Gretchen Goldman, president and CEO at the Union of Concerned Scientists, which is part of the suit. "This shameful and dangerous action … is rooted in falsehoods, not facts, and is at complete odds with the public interest and the best available science," Goldman said. Heat-trapping emissions and global average temperatures are rising — primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels — contributing to a mounting human and economic toll across the world, she said.
The White House and Zeldin said the new rule will save taxpayers $1.3 trillion over the next three decades, mostly from reduced costs for new vehicles. But the EPA's own analysis found that eliminating the vehicle standards will likely increase gas prices, forcing Americans to spend more on fuel. A chart within the agency's regulatory analysis predicts $1.4 trillion in additional costs through 2055 from increased fuel purchases, vehicle repair and maintenance and other issues.
PRESIDENT Donald Trump speaks during an event with Environmental Protection Agency director Lee Zeldin to announce the EPA will no longer regulate greenhouse gases, in the Roosevelt Room of the White House, Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, in Washington. Photo:Evan Vucci/AP
DPM greets American’s inaugural Bimini ight
CHESTER Cooper, deputy prime minister and minister of tourism, investments and aviation, greeted arriving passengers on American Airlines’ frst fight from Miami to Bimini on Valentine's Day.
The year-round, three fights per week American Eagle visits make it the only US carrier with non-stop service to the island via a mere 18 minute-trip. Declaring it a “game changer” for Bimini, Mr Cooper said it not only enhances accessibility between the island and major US cities, but also signals a new phase of growth for Bimini's economy.
Jose Maria Giraldo, American Airlines’ managing director of operations for Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean and Central America, said the launch of the airline's service to Bimini - its seventh destination in The Bahamas - afrms the carrier’s long-term commitment to the market.
DPM tours $80m upgrade for Bimini airport gateway
CHESTER Cooper, deputy prime minister and minister of tourism, investments and aviation, toured South Bimini Airport's new international terminal that is now under construction at a cost of $80m. He welcomed, on the same day, the inaugural American Airlines fight from Miami to Bimini. In attendance were parliamentary secretary, Kingsley Smith, MP; Senator Randy Rolle; Dr Kenneth Romer, deputy director-general of tourism and director of aviation, and other government ofcials.
MINISTER of Tourism, Investments and Aviation Chester Cooper, left, and AA Managing Director, Operations, for Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean and Canada.
Photos:Kemuel Stubbs/BIS
DPM Cooper, centre left; Senator Randy Rolle, centre; and Parliamentary Secretary Kingsley Smith, centre right.
DEPUTY Prime Minister Chester Cooper, centre; and Director of Aviation Kenneth Romer, centre right.