San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago

The City of San Fernando is one of the two cities which exist in the twin island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. It is 18 km² in area. It is situated in the southwestern area of the island of Trinidad; bounded to the North by the Guaracara River, the south by the Oropouche River, the east by the Sir Solomon Hochoy Highway, and the West by the Gulf of Paria. The population was estimated to be 62,000 as of 2002, making it the largest city and second largest municipality in the country. The former Borough of San Fernando was elevated to the status of a city on November 18, 1988.

Governance

The administration of San Fernando is done by San Fernando City Corporation. It is a corporate body, and the staff is instrumental in the exercise of the powers of the Corporation through the Council. Functions of this Corporation are delegated by the Central Government, and the Corporation itself is within the jurisdiction of the Minister of Local Government.

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Local government administration starts in 1845 - when the Town Council was established and the Municipality of San Fernando came into being. Circa 1853, San Fernando was elevated to a Borough; the first Mayor was Dr. Robert Johnstone. From the simple start of a fishing village, San Fernando blossomed financially, and became "the Industrial Capital" of Trinidad and Tobago.

Related Topics:
1845 - Robert Johnstone - Trinidad and Tobago

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This crest incorporates the City motto, the sea, the hill, a fishing boat, sugar cane stalk, oil tank, house and two discs. The sea and boat represent the beginnings as a fishing village. The sugar cane stalk represents the Sugar industry. The oil tank represents productivity and the oil industry. The house represents shelter for all races. The sun-like disks represent Steelpan and Tassa, as well as togetherness.

Related Topics:
Sugar cane - Steelpan - Tassa

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During its first year as a city, San Fernando was twinned with the town of Trinite, Martinique. Ties with the French were re-established.

Related Topics:
Trinite - Martinique

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The City of San Fernando is divided into nine electoral districts, each represented by a Councillor. Three appointed Aldermen sit on the Council, which is chaired by the Mayor, currently Ian Atherley, an activist of the current People's National Movement government on trial for ballot-box tampering in the 2002 General Elections.

Related Topics:
Ian Atherley - People's National Movement - 2002 General Elections

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