Goverment Archives - Lautoka City Council

Official Opening of Namoli Green Night Food Market and Launch of Digital Parking Meters in Lautoka City

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 22:30:29 +0000

The Minister of Local Government, Hon. Maciu Katamotu Nalumisa, graced the official opening ceremony of the Namoli Green Night Food Market and the launch of Digital Parking Meters in Lautoka City, marking significant strides towards enhancing community facilities and urban infrastructure.

Namoli Green Night Food Market: A Culinary Hub for Innovation

Situated adjacent to the Lautoka Bus Stand, the Namoli Green Night Food Market stands as a beacon of culinary diversity with 70 food stalls, including seven cart spaces equipped with washing and sitting facilities for vendors and consumers alike. This innovative market is not just a place to savor local cuisine but a platform aimed at fostering fresh ideas, nurturing local businesses, and fostering community bonds. In a first for leisure enthusiasts, the market offers an ambiance perfect for strolling, shopping, and relishing delectable food.

Hon. Maciu Katamotu Nalumisa emphasized the Fijian Government and Lautoka City Council’s unwavering commitment to modernize facilities while keeping an eye on the evolving needs of the communities, both present and future.

Digital Parking Meters Revolutionize Lautoka City’s Parking System

In a parallel initiative, the Minister inaugurated the deployment of Digital Parking Meters in Lautoka City, aligning with the city’s commitment to adopting advanced technologies for improved urban services. Lautoka City Council, guided by the Ministry, procured 45 state-of-the-art Electronic Parking Meters to replace the traditional lollipop meters.

The introduction of Pay & Display meters and the revolutionary Pay By Plate technology ushers in a new era of convenience. This technology enables users to input their vehicle registration number into the system, with real-time updates accessible to city rangers via smart devices. In the coming weeks, the Pay By Plate feature will be activated, allowing drivers to pay for parking at the nearest Pay by Plate parking meters without returning to their parked vehicles. During this transitional period, drivers are advised to display their parking tickets on their dashboards.

Lautoka City Council remains steadfast in its commitment to embracing modern solutions that elevate the city’s functionality and convenience, exemplifying a forward-looking approach to urban development.

Note: The drone shots and video are courtesy of Mr. Mohit Lal of Lautoka City.

The post Official Opening of Namoli Green Night Food Market and Launch of Digital Parking Meters in Lautoka City appeared first on Lautoka City Council.

Government begins process to complete Lautoka pool

admin — Fri, 29 Dec 2023 02:13:01 +0000

The Coalition Government has begun the process to complete the Lautoka swimming pool project with consultants and project managers to be appointed soon to oversee the works.

The Ministry of Local Government is now looking for interested companies for the tender for consultancy services, redesign, documentation and project management services for the swimming pool located at the Botanical Gardens, Lautoka.

The cost of the yet-to-be-completed pool had escalated from the initial budgeted amount of $2million to $12.6million.

Government has set aside $4.5million in the 2023/2024 national budget for the completion of works.

“The project would resume from where it was halted, with key components including the finalisation of the buildings, refurbishment of the pool and its surrounding areas, acquisition and installation of filtration systems, and necessary accessories, including a three-phase power supply,” Lautoka City Council CEO Mohammed Anees Khan said in July.

He said to procure items from overseas, a tender process would be initiated, taking into account awarding, shipment, and delivery times, all of which would be incorporated into the project timeline.

“Overall, the council anticipates a completion time of approximately 10 to 11 months,” Mr Khan said.

Source: The Fiji Times | Date: 28th Dec 2023.

The post Government begins process to complete Lautoka pool appeared first on Lautoka City Council.

Termite control program | LCC carries out scoping works of infested homes

admin — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 00:03:09 +0000

The Lautoka City Council is working closely with the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) to identify termite-affected homes within the boundary of the municipality.

Council CEO Mohammed Anees Khan said this was part of their role in the Termite Control Assistance Program (TCAP), which received funding of $3 million from Government.

“Lautoka City Council decided to partner on this program as an easy means of accessibility to lodge applications and complaints, and follow ups,” said Mr Khan.

“LCC’s current scope will be for those within the municipal boundary areas with option to assist BAF for those outside the boundary if required.”

According to Government, TCAP is a comprehensive strategy put together by Government and BAF to develop a database for termite infestation in Lautoka and conduct site inspections after treatment works are completed.

TCAP will focus on a comprehensive baiting system from reporting, making baits widely available and subsidising treatment for households earning below $30,000.

Mr Khan said the council’s role was to collect complaints from residents and enter the data into a database.

“Council’s role is that of administrative support, receiving applications and complaints and input data into the applications portal. “Also, upon request, carry out site inspections to verify remedial actions implemented are complete as per requirements set out by BAF.”

He said each application would be processed thoroughly.

“The application processing criteria will determine eligibility after going through the data provided.” While announcing the pilot project in Parliament, Assistant Minister for the Office of the Prime Minister Sakiusa Tubuna said residents would be able to file reports with the council if they suspected termite infestations on their property.

“The council will then issue reports to TCAP partners for inspection and treatment planning,” said Mr Tubuna.

Source: The Fiji Times

The post Termite control program | LCC carries out scoping works of infested homes appeared first on Lautoka City Council.

Lautoka City Council Extends Warm Welcome to Sister City – Jiangmen City, Guangdong Province, China

admin — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 21:13:32 +0000

In a gesture of international friendship and cooperation, the Lautoka City Council (LCC) was honored to host a delegation from its Sister City, Jiangmen City, located in Guangdong Province, the People’s Republic of China.

During the visit, Mr. Mohammed Anees Khan, CEO of LCC, extended a warm welcome to the esteemed delegation and expressed his gratitude for their official visit to their Sister City. The delegation was led by Mr. Zhang Yuanxing, Chairman of the Jiangmen Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and President of the Jiangmen Public Diplomacy Association.

The delegation included distinguished members, such as Mr. Li Zhigang, Vice Director of the Jiangmen Foreign Affairs Bureau, Mr. Liu Xuewen, Director of the Jiangmen Health Bureau, Mr. Zou Dechang, Chairman of the Jianghai Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Mr. Lin Guoning, Chairman of the Kaiping Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and Ms. Fu Yingjun, Section Chief of the Jiangmen Foreign Affairs Bureau.

The primary purpose of this visit was to enhance mutual understanding and foster greater exchange and collaboration between the two cities in various fields.

Representing LCC, participants included Mr. Anil Amin, Chairman and Special Administrator of LCC, Mr. Shalend Dass, Director of Building and Acting Director of Engineering Services, Mr. Rouhit Karan Singh, Acting Head of Services, Mr. Abdul Israaz Khan, Acting Head of Finance, as well as several managers and supervisors from various departments.

CEO Mohammed Anees Khan also expressed his appreciation for Jiangmen City’s generous donation of face masks during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the importance of international solidarity in times of crisis.

The visit between Lautoka City Council and Jiangmen City further solidifies the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two cities, setting the stage for continued collaboration in the future.

The post Lautoka City Council Extends Warm Welcome to Sister City – Jiangmen City, Guangdong Province, China appeared first on Lautoka City Council.

Collaborative Effort Enhances Food Safety Monitoring in Lautoka

admin — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 04:44:53 +0000

The Lautoka City Council’s Health department and the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) have embarked on a joint surveillance and monitoring campaign of local supermarkets to ensure the safety and suitability of food products. This comprehensive initiative, launched yesterday, is designed to create awareness and safeguard the quality of food items during the upcoming festive season and beyond.

In a proactive move, eight supermarkets within the Lautoka area have undergone meticulous inspections, with the aim of maintaining the highest standards of food safety. Any supermarkets found operating under unsanitary conditions will receive abatement notices, as stipulated under the Food Safety Act of 2003.

Moreover, these collaborative efforts extend beyond mere inspections. Supermarkets have also been alerted to any additional violations, and food products deemed unfit for human consumption have been promptly condemned for destruction, ensuring the well-being of consumers.

The initiative commenced following a comprehensive briefing by both the Lautoka City Council’s Health department and the FCCC, reflecting their shared commitment to safeguarding public health. The joint surveillance and monitoring campaign will be an ongoing effort, extending into the coming months.

The post Collaborative Effort Enhances Food Safety Monitoring in Lautoka appeared first on Lautoka City Council.

Celebrating Excellence: Lautoka City Council’s Mr. Rouhit Karan Singh Awarded Most Outstanding Environmental Health Officer

admin — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 00:20:54 +0000

In a momentous occasion at the 29th annual general meeting of the Fiji Institute of Environmental Health held at The Pearl Resort, Pacific Harbour on September 1^st 2023, Lautoka City Council’s Manager Health Services, Mr. Rouhit Karan Singh, was bestowed with the prestigious title of the Most Outstanding Environmental Health Officer in Local Government for the year 2022-2023. This remarkable achievement not only recognizes Mr. Singh’s exceptional dedication but also underscores the vital role he plays in safeguarding public health and the environment.

Mr. Singh’s journey to this remarkable accolade has been a testament to his unwavering commitment and passion for his profession. He began his career as a trainee Health Inspector at the Lautoka City Council in April 1994, where he embarked on a journey of growth and development. Over the years, he diligently acquired the necessary skills and knowledge, ultimately emerging as a stalwart in the field of environmental health.

“With my pride to be a true Lautokan, I always had the city cleanliness, beautification, customer service delivery at heart, it was a wonderful journey from Vakabuli village to Sugar City,” he said.

One of Mr. Singh’s most commendable qualities is his steadfast adherence to the core values of the environmental health profession. He has consistently demonstrated excellence in enforcing public health regulations and protecting our environment, aligning himself with the noble goals of the Council, Ministry of Health, and Central Board of Health.

Mr. Singh’s accolade as the Most Outstanding Environmental Health Officer is a testament to his remarkable leadership qualities. He is not only a leader by title but also by example, setting a high standard for his peers and colleagues to follow. His leadership is characterized by qualities such as respect, integrity, self-awareness, courage, empathy, and gratitude. These traits have not only shaped him into an outstanding professional but have also served as a guiding light for others in the field.

Perhaps one of Mr. Singh’s most admirable attributes is his unwavering dedication to mentoring and motivating others in the profession. He has consistently encouraged and inspired his colleagues to develop their skills, reach for their highest potential, and work collectively towards achieving their common goals.

As we celebrate Mr. Rouhit Karan Singh’s well-deserved recognition as the Most Outstanding Environmental Health Officer in Local Government, it is evident that his contributions have left an indelible mark on the profession and the community he serves. His dedication, leadership, and commitment to environmental health have not only earned him this prestigious award but have also elevated the standards of excellence within the field.

We are indeed fortunate to have individuals like Mr. Singh leading and delivering exemplary services in our local government. His passion for public health and the environment serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the profound impact that dedicated professionals can have on the well-being of our communities and the preservation of our precious environment.

“At this juncture, I personally thank Lautoka City Council, Management and workers of them continued development and unwavering support. My late parents for their blessings and guidance and not forgetting my family (wife and only daughter) for their unconditional sacrifices.”
“Lautoka City Council being an equal opportunity has invested a lot in my professional and personal development and I do not hesitate to fulfil the desired expectations to the organization where I choose to retire.”

Congratulations to Mr. Rouhit Karan Singh on this well-deserved honor. May his remarkable journey continue to inspire others to follow in his footsteps and uphold the values and principles of the environmental health profession.

The post Celebrating Excellence: Lautoka City Council’s Mr. Rouhit Karan Singh Awarded Most Outstanding Environmental Health Officer appeared first on Lautoka City Council.

MINISTER OFFICIATES 20 NEW HOUSES IN KOROIPITA

admin — Sun, 20 Aug 2023 21:03:28 +0000

The Minister for Housing and Local Government, Hon. Maciu Katamotu Nalumisa , graced a momentous occasion today as he officially inaugurated the opening of 20 new meticulously designed model town houses in Koroipita – Model Towns Charitable Trust. The event marked a significant step towards addressing the housing needs of the community.

The model town houses in Koroipita is a testament to the government’s commitment to provide high-quality and sustainable housing solutions to its citizens. Hon. Maciu Nalumisa, in his address, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in promoting a better quality of life and fostering vibrant neighborhoods.

The newly constructed town houses boast innovative architectural designs, incorporating eco-friendly materials, cyclone 3 standard. Each unit has been thoughtfully crafted to offer a harmonious blend of aesthetics, functionality, and comfort, catering to the diverse needs of families.

The Minister also acknowledged the New Zealand MFAT for their continuous support and working with the Fiji Government to safeguard the livelihoods of the people through this project.

In this financial year, a total budget allocation of $1.7 million has been provided to Koroipita Model Town for land development, and construction of 16 homes.

Source/credits: Ministry of Housing & Community Development

The post MINISTER OFFICIATES 20 NEW HOUSES IN KOROIPITA appeared first on Lautoka City Council.

UN-Habitat and Fijian Government Collaborate on Climate Change Adaptation Workshop in Lautoka City

admin — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 03:49:57 +0000

A significant stride towards fortifying climate change resilience in Fiji was undertaken through a comprehensive two-day workshop held in Lautoka City Council’s Chamber. The event, led by Ms. Begoña Peiró from UN-Habitat in conjunction with representatives from the Ministry of Housing and the Ministry of Local Government, served as a pivotal engagement under the Fiji Resilient Informal Settlements (FRIS) project. This venture, funded by the Adaptation Fund (AF) and executed by UN-Habitat in partnership with the Ministry of Housing, the Ministry of Local Government, and the Climate Change Division, is emblematic of unwavering commitment to safeguarding Fiji’s communities from the adverse impacts of climate change.

Urbanization, while a symbol of progress and development, has inadvertently intensified the effects of climate change, posing dire challenges to vulnerable communities. As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, the need for comprehensive climate adaptation strategies has become paramount. The FRIS project, within its first component of Institutional Strengthening to Enhance Local Climate Response Actions, is steadfastly dedicated to fostering climate resilience through a multifaceted approach.

Key milestones achieved during the workshop included:

Project Orientation and Scope: A comprehensive overview of the FRIS project was presented, elucidating its far-reaching scope and purpose within Component 1.
Framework for Vulnerability and Risk Assessment: Attendees were apprised of the framework guiding vulnerability and risk assessments, which are meticulously aligned with national-level policies to maximize efficacy.
Collaborative Dialogue: Productive discussions were held, encompassing the intricacies of the assessment processes, projected timelines, and forthcoming stages of the initiative.
Key Informant Interviews: Integral to the assessment process, key informant interviews were conducted, acting as a vital source of insight for the forthcoming analysis.
Information Scoping: A meticulous examination of available data resources was undertaken, ensuring a robust foundation for informed decision-making.
Stakeholder Workshop: A day-long workshop convened with key stakeholders from Lautoka City, including council representatives, community leaders, civil society organizations, and more. This assembly served as a critical avenue for sharing knowledge, garnering insights, and fostering a unified climate change adaptation strategy.

The holistic objectives of the workshop align seamlessly with broader global efforts to counteract the burgeoning threats posed by climate change. As communities grapple with the ramifications of rapid urbanization, initiatives such as the FRIS project offer a beacon of hope, underlining the necessity of collaborative, data-driven action to preserve the resilience of vulnerable settlements.

The road ahead is paved with unwavering dedication as UN-Habitat, the Fijian Ministries, and stakeholders unite to traverse the challenges of climate change head-on. The workshop in Lautoka City stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and proactive measures in shaping a more resilient future for Fiji’s inhabitants.

The post UN-Habitat and Fijian Government Collaborate on Climate Change Adaptation Workshop in Lautoka City appeared first on Lautoka City Council.

Enhancing Food Safety Standards: Lautoka City Council Empowers Eatery and Bake House Operators/Managers

admin — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 00:22:47 +0000

In a proactive effort to strengthen food safety standards and promote better public health, the Lautoka City Council recently organized a comprehensive Food Safety Training for Eatery and Bake House Operators/Managers. The training, held at the Lautoka City Council Chamber, aimed to create awareness about relevant food safety legislations, equip participants with essential knowledge and procedures related to food safety and hygiene, and ultimately ensure the well-being of consumers while reducing food safety complaints.

The Divisional Health Inspector West, Mr. Rakesh Kumar, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the importance of food businesses working in partnership with health authorities to adhere to best practices. Emphasizing the need to safeguard the interests of customers, Mr. Kumar stressed that compliance with food standards and legislations would lead to improved standards across all food businesses in Lautoka.

Mr. Deepak Lal, Head of Services at LCC, welcomed all the participants and officially inaugurated the training session. He reiterated the significance of food businesses complying with food safety standards and regulations, which would not only ensure public health but also raise the overall level of compliance within the industry.

Empowering Food Business Operators:

The objectives of the awareness program were strategically designed to address critical aspects of food safety and enhance the overall standards of eateries and bake houses in Lautoka. By creating awareness on relevant Food Safety legislations, participants were equipped with the necessary information to comply with basic requirements and standards. Understanding and adhering to these regulations not only helps operators avoid legal issues but also fosters a culture of responsibility and commitment to public health.

Comprehensive Knowledge Sharing:

During the training session, participants delved into various topics that are vital to maintaining food safety. The discussion covered areas such as Health Licensing, which ensures that all food businesses operate with proper licenses and meet health and safety standards. Restaurant Grading was also emphasized, where businesses are rated based on their compliance with food safety regulations, making it easier for consumers to make informed choices.

Good Hygiene Practices (GHP) were another focal point of the training, as they play a significant role in preventing foodborne illnesses. Participants were educated about proper food preparation, handling, storage, display, and sale practices to reduce the risk of contamination and ensure the delivery of safe food to customers.

Aside from the aforementioned topics, the training also shed light on various other aspects of legislation relating to the operation of eateries and bakeries. Understanding the legal aspects of running a food business is crucial in ensuring that operators stay compliant and avoid potential penalties.

Water Authority of Fiji Requirements on Grease Trap were also covered during the awareness program. Grease traps are essential to prevent the buildup of fats, oils, and grease in the sewage system, safeguarding public health and the environment.

At the conclusion of the Food Safety Training, all participants were awarded certificates of participation. These certificates serve as a testament to the operators’ commitment to upholding food safety standards and their dedication to the well-being of their customers.

The Food Safety Training conducted by the Lautoka City Council marks a significant step towards enhancing food safety standards within the city. By providing operators and managers with crucial knowledge and awareness of food safety legislations, hygiene practices, and legal aspects, the council aims to encourage the prevention of foodborne illnesses and reduce complaints related to food safety. As the operators implement these best practices, Lautoka residents can dine with greater confidence, knowing that their health and well-being are in safe hands. Moreover, this training sets an example for other regions and cities to prioritize food safety and work towards a healthier and safer dining experience for all.

The post Enhancing Food Safety Standards: Lautoka City Council Empowers Eatery and Bake House Operators/Managers appeared first on Lautoka City Council.

Lautoka Swimming Pool Project Set for Mid-Next Year Completion, Reveals City Council CEO

admin — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 22:02:15 +0000

The Lautoka Swimming Pool Project is on track to be finished by the middle of next year, according to Mohammed Anees Khan, the chief executive officer of the Lautoka City Council. Khan expressed his delight after an announcement that $4.5 million has been allocated to ensure the completion of the long-awaited project.

“The planning for the resumption of the project is currently underway in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government,” Khan revealed.

He further detailed that the project would resume from where it was halted, with key components including the finalization of the buildings, refurbishment of the pool and its surrounding areas, acquisition and installation of filtration systems, and necessary accessories, including a three-phase power supply.

To procure items from overseas, a tender process will be initiated, taking into account awarding, shipment, and delivery times, all of which will be incorporated into the project timeline.

“Overall, the council anticipates a completion time of approximately 10 to 11 months,” Khan added.

During a recent post-budget discussion held at the Grand Pacific Hotel, Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad revealed that $7 million has already been spent on the project. However, work on the pool itself remains incomplete.

Prof Prasad announced that the Coalition Government has pledged an additional $4.5 million to ensure the project’s successful conclusion. Once finished, the swimming pool is expected to serve the residents of Lautoka, local communities, schools, swimming clubs, professional athletes, and visiting sports teams.

The eagerly anticipated completion of the Lautoka Swimming Pool Project will undoubtedly provide a significant boost to the local community and promote a healthier and more active lifestyle for all stakeholders involved.

The post Lautoka Swimming Pool Project Set for Mid-Next Year Completion, Reveals City Council CEO appeared first on Lautoka City Council.