Portland Municipal Corporation Denies Craft Vendor Fee Hikes

The Portland Municipal Corporation denied reports that craft vendors at the Portland Craft Village in Port Antonio are facing a 150 percent increase in monthly fees. While vendors reported being told that costs would rise from $8,000 to $20,000, CEO Jumani Robinson stated that no official decision has been made and that any changes require committee approval and dialogue with vendors.

June Shaw, president of the Craft Vendors Association, reported that vendors are struggling financially while the facility suffers from leaking roofs and crumbling wooden structures. Mayor Paul Thompson expressed opposition to the $20,000 monthly fee and dismissed claims that vendors would be forced to pay for their own janitorial and security services.

A meeting is scheduled for November 11, 2026, to determine the way forward. During this process, vendors will be required to submit business plans to the corporation.