Bahamas

Local Government Act

Local Government Act, 1996 (Ch. 37)

Read the statute →

Sunshine Score: 30/100 (weak)
30/100

Sunshine Score

30/100
Weak
Methodology v0.1
Advance Notice 3 days
Public Comment Not required
Closed Sessions 7 permitted categories
Minutes Required
Recording Not required
Remote Participation Not allowed
Enforcement Voidable, legislature exempt

Agenda & Notice Requirements

Regular Meetings
3 days

Online posting: Not required

Public Participation

Public Comment
Not required
Written Comment
Not allowed

Virtual Meetings

Member Remote Participation
Not allowed
Public Remote Comment
Not allowed

Closed Sessions

Closed (executive) sessions: Allowed under specific circumstances

Permitted Categories

Meeting Minutes

Minutes Required
Yes

Online posting: Not required

Recording & Broadcast

Recording Required
No
Broadcast Required
No

Enforcement

Violation Effect
Voidable
Standing to Sue
Any person with a legitimate interest may seek judicial review
Enforcement Body
Ministry of Local Government; Public Disclosure Commission

Scope

This law applies to:

  • District Council
  • Town Committee

Legislature: Exempt (follows own rules)

Sources & References

Notes

The Bahamas Local Government Act 1996 established district councils and town committees in the Family Islands (excluding New Providence, where central government administers directly). Council meetings are open to the public by statutory requirement. The Ministry of Local Government oversees the councils. The Bahamas is the only Caribbean country where the capital is administered directly by central government rather than a municipal body.

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The specific rules for Bahamas may differ from this general description. Consult the full statute for details.