Where Is the Sargassum Response for Belize City?

Sargassum has been washing up on Belize City’s coastline for the past weeks, and while clean-up efforts have largely focused on the tourism-dependent cayes, residents in Belize City are saying the issue is becoming impossible to ignore.

Residents and business owners in the city say the shoreline has been left to deteriorate.

At Golden Bay Resort Hotel, Acting General Manager Samantha Pagoada said the sargassum was initially confined to particular sections of the city’s shoreline and not near the business. However, the sargassum mats over the recent weeks have extended closer and closer to the property. She says she is seeking to have discussions about organising a community clean-up.

“We are willing to partner with anyone to do cleanups. Whatever it is. Something needs to be done quickly,” Pagoada said. Her main worry isn’t the smell yet; it’s the view guests pay for.

However, nearby businesses say the odour is already affecting staff and customers. “The smell is very terrible,” one employee told News Five. “I do hope that the government tries to do something about it ’cause it’s very bad for the business… like the tourists come and they smell this, they won’t wanna sit outside and eat,” he said.

Tune in to News 5 Live tonight at 6 o’clock to hear what the Belize City Council is saying on the matter.