The Bridge Authority is under the portfolio of the Ministry of Works and Family Island Affairs, headed by the Hon. Clay Sweeting, Minister of Works & Family Island Affairs.
As a quasi-governmental entity, the Bridge Authority is ultimately answerable to the Prime Minister of The Bahamas, the Hon. Philip Edward Davis.
The Hon. Philip Edward Davis
PRIME MINISTER
THE COMMONWEALTH OF THE BAHAMAS
The Hon. Philip Edward “Brave” Davis became the Fifth Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas following the General Election of September 16, 2021.
Mr. Davis was born June 7, 1951, to Brave Edward Davis of Old Bight, Cat Island, and Dorothy Davis (nee Smith) of Alexander, Exuma.
He received his early education at the Eastern Prep School, Eastern Jr. School and St. John’s College. Upon graduating from St. John’s at the aged of 16 with six GCE ‘O’ Levels, he was employed as a construction worker. Later, Mr. Davis secured employment at Barclay’s Bank before resigning to pursue a career as an articled clerk with Wallace-Whitfield and Barnwell. Mr. Davis was called to the Bar of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas on March 5, 1975.
Mr. Davis was first elected the Member of Parliament for the Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador Constituency in 1992. He was defeated at the polls in the 1997 General Election by the Free National Movement candidate James H. Miller. However, in the 2002 General Election, Mr. Davis defeated Mr. Miller to return to Parliament as the representative for the Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador Constituency. He continued as the representative of that constituency following wins in the 2007, 2012, 2017 and the 2021 General Elections.
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Following the General Election of 2017, Mr. Davis was sworn in as Leader of the Opposition.
On September 17, 2021, Mr. Davis was sworn in as Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and on September 18, 2021 the Governor-General presented him with his instruments of appointment to the Office of Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Prime Minister Davis is also the Minister of Finance.
Up to his appointment as Prime Minister, Mr. Davis was a practicing attorney-at-law in the law firm of Davis and Co. He is a former partner in the law firm of Christie, Davis and Co. and he has served as president and vice-president of the Bahamas Bar Association. He has sat on the Council of Legal Education and its Executive Committee as well as the Academic Committee of the Norman Manley Law School, Jamaica. He has served as a chairman of the National Insurance Board and as a Magistrate in The Bahamas court system.
An Anglican, Mr. Davis has served as a member of St. Christopher’s Anglican Church Vestry Board and also as the Parish’s Synod representative.
He is the father of six and is married to the former Ann Marie Austin. His hobbies include swimming, softball, jogging and reading.
His ministerial portfolio includes:
Government Finance and Borrowings
Revenue
Treasury Department
Customs Department
Department of Inland Revenue
Budgeting & Planning
Central Bank of The Bahamas
Bahamas Development Bank
Banks and Trust Companies
Post Office Savings Bank
Auctions
Treasure Trove
Wrecks
Business Licenses and Valuations
Guarantee Loans (Tourism Development)
First-Time Homeowners Tax
Exemption Programme
Bank of The Bahamas
Public Procurement
Relations with Multilateral Financial Institutions
Administration of Tax Information
Exchange Agreements
Relations with the Securities Commission
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The Hon. Clay Sweeting
Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs
In 2008, the Hon. Clay Sweeting became the youngest member to serve in Local Government at that time in Spanish Wells.
At the age of 17, his entrepreneurial spirit moved him to purchase half of a fishing vessel.
Now a former fisherman, Minister Sweeting desires to share his passion with his community.
He served as Chairman of the Spanish Wells Commonage Committee from 2008 to 2009 and is a member of the Bahamas Real Estate Association. He also served as the Deputy Chairman of the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation where he was instrumental in assisting and developing entrepreneurs and agriculture in the Bahamas.
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He is a former Senator and the owner of Tees R Us Bahamas Ltd. and other businesses.
He was born on December 21st , 1985 in Spanish Wells, Eleuthera and received his education at Spanish Wells All Age School and Teeside University.
He enjoys sports, fishing, travelling and spending time with his family. He is married to Delia and they are the parents of 1 son, Davin.
On September 16, 2021 he was elected Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera and on September 20, 2021 he was sworn to office as the Minister with responsibility for Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs.
Minister Sweeting’s portfolio as Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island affairs included: Agricultural food production, Department of Agriculture, agriculture marketing, horticulture, quality control of food and beverage, Potters Cay Dock, veterinary services and animal disease, public markets, Down Home Fish Fry, food security, Bahamas Agriculture Health and Food Safety Authority, slaughter houses, agricultural lands, cooperatives, craft markets, credit unions, relations with The Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation, Bahamas Agricultural Marine Science Institute, Fisheries, relations with Local Government Authorities, Family Island Affairs, Local Improvement Associations, regattas and homecoming festivals.
On the 11th September, 2023; Minister Sweeting was named Minister for the Ministry of Works and Family Island Affairs by the Prime Minister of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, The Hon. Philip Davis, KC, MP; during a reshuffle in cabinet.
His new portfolio will include:
Department of Public Works
Department of Physical Planning
Construction, Maintenance and Upkeep of Public Infrastructure including
Government Buildings, Roads, Docks, Bridges and Cemeteries
Maintenance and Construction of Sidewalks
Explosives and Volatile Substances
Drainage
Relations with the Straw Market Authority
Downtown Nassau Re-Development
Town and Country Planning
Private Roads and Subdivisions
Land Use Plan for New Providence and Family Islands
Building Control
Physical Planning and Land Use
Relations with Bahamas Power and Light Company
Relations with The Bahamas Water and Sewerage Corporation
Relations with The Bridge Authority
Public Parks and Beaches Authority
Family Island Affairs
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Mr. Pedro Rolle
Executive Chairman
Mr. Pedro Derek Rolle serves as Executive Chairman as a member for the Board of Directors for The Bridge Authority.
Mr. Rolle is a highly accomplished professional and currently holds the positions of Vice President & Partner for Seaside Real Estate, Exuma and President & Owner of Capital Investment Services. Before advancing on as the Vice President/Partner & Owner of two prestigious companies, he held several positions in which he served as a General Manager & Owner of Computing Solutions, President of Capital Management International, Vice President of Valou Enterprises, Inc. Miami, Florida, and Vice President of Universal Automotive Co. Ltd.
He also held a Teacher’s position in the public school system. Mr. Rolle earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics at Fisk University, Nashville Tennessee.
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Mr. Rolle is well respected in his community in which he served as Chairman of Mt. Thompson Commonage Association since January 2013 to December 2022 and presently serves as President, Exuma Chamber of Commerce.
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Mr. Jerry Pinder
Deputy Chairman
Mr. Jerry Pinder is a dedicated community leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for family island development, with decades of experience across public service, business, and community engagement.
Mr. Pinder began his public service career in 1987 when he was appointed as a member of the Board of Works (now the Ministry of Local Government), serving until 1992. He has long been a vocal and active advocate for the advancement and self-sufficiency of the family islands, particularly his home community of Spanish Wells, Eleuthera.
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Deeply committed to youth and sports development, Mr. Pinder has served the Spanish Wells Sports Association for over 40 years, beginning at the age of (16) sixteen. His leadership in this area has made a lasting impact on generations of young people in the community.
In addition to his public service, Mr. Pinder has a strong background in the maritime and agricultural sectors. He has served as captain of a local fishing company and continues to maintain a part-time farming operation.
Mr. Pinder is also a successful entrepreneur. He is the Manager of Tees-R-Us, a screen-printing company based in Spanish Wells that provides custom apparel and promotional products to customers throughout the Bahamas and internationally.
A devoted family man, Mr. Pinder is the proud father of two children—one son and one daughter. With a deep love for his community and a strong commitment to service, Mr. Pinder brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and local insight to the Bridge Authority.
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Mr. Rickeno Moncur
Board of Director
Pastor Rickeno R. Moncur, was born on February 21, 1984, in New Providence, The Bahamas. He is a quintessential millennial leader; one who many describe as a wise man beyond his years. He is a prolific speaker, leadership cultivator, advocate of excellence and visionary influencer.
With more than 20 years in ministry, his charismatic approach has helped thousands throughout the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and North America find life and realize their purpose.
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In 2001, Pastor Moncur entered full time ministry at the Agape Church, where he served faithfully in many leadership capacities under the leadership of Bishop Helen McPhee. He attended the Gilead International College where he studied Psychology and Theology and is presently enrolled in the New Covenant University where his studies continue in Christian Leadership and Organizational Management.
Pastor Moncur is the recipient of two Pacesetter in Religion awards from the Government of the Bahamas. He serves as the Executive Assistant to the Provincial Leader of the Global United Fellowship, Bahamas; appointed in 2019 by His Grace, Bishop Neil C. Ellis. In addition, he is the Co-Host of a weekly Current Affairs Radio Talk Show on Glory 93.9FM.
In 2007, at the age of 23, he established the Word of Life Kingdom Ministries Church, in Nassau, Bahamas. Pastor Moncur’s greatest motivation in life is seeing people living the abundant life that Christ died for them to live!
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Mrs. Lorraine Johnson-Berry
Board of Director
Mrs. Lorraine Johnson-Berry serves as a member of the Board of Directors for The Bridge Authority.
She is a decorated banker by profession, with a rich history in the Commercial Banking Sector, that spans over two decades.
During her career, she has risen through the ranks in banking and served in many distinctive roles inclusive of positions responsible for the leadership and management of people, as well as client portfolios. In her current role as a Private Banker, at one of our leading financial institutions, she manages a portfolio of wealthy to affluent local and international clients.
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She has been recognized for her stellar performance and received multiple local and regional awards. Her most notable award was being the awardee of the Bahamas Financial Services “Professional of the Year Award”.
Mrs. Johnson-Berry completed her High School Education at St. Augustine’s College. She holds an Associates of Arts Degree in Banking & Finance; a Bachelor of Science Degree in Professional Management with a concentration in Finance; and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the College of the Bahamas and Nova Southeast University.
While she is a former Kiwanian, she continues to render her service to the less fortunate and needy in the community and offers mentorship to young ladies in her circle and community at large. She is an active member at her church and currently serves as the Church’s keyboard player and Treasurer.
Mrs. Johnson-Berry is married to Mr. Warren Berry and the couple is blessed with three children Kennon, Jai’den, and Zayne.
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Joan Baillou Ferguson
Board of Director
Joann Ferguson is an innovative entrepreneur and committed community leader with a deep passion for progressive leadership and service. For OVER 15 years, has supported the Farm Road and Centerville communities through active involvement in Urban Renewal initiatives and other outreach programs.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mrs. Ferguson’s charitable spirit gave rise to We Got Your Back Community Outreach, an initiative created to provide relief when her community needed it most. Beginning with essential grocery packages and has since grown to host quarterly events including Free Breakfast Fridays, Easter-Givebacks, and Christmas Food and Toy Giveaways.
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Mrs. Ferguson has also served nationally, as the former Deputy Chairman of the Bahamas Public Parks and Public Beaches Authority for three years and continues her civic service as a Justice of the Peace. She presently serves as Centre Manager at the Centreville Urban Renewal Authority, where she channels her leadership and compassion into strengthening communities.
Professionally, she is a serial entrepreneur known for her creativity and diversity. A graduate of the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), formerly ITC, she became a certified Cosmetologist and enjoyed a fulfilling 30-year career as a licensed Beautician. Building on that success, she later launched Taste Like Mor Kitchen and Catering, which continues to serve the Bahamian community today.
Beyond her professional and civic roles, Mrs. Ferguson is a church leader, a devoted wife to Thomas Sr., and a proud mother of two young adults, Thomas Jr. and Tyronella.
Known for being inventive, resourceful, and selfless, Joann Ferguson has long been regarded as a consistent figure in her community. She lives by her life’s mantra from Psalms 121: “I will lift up my eyes to the hills—From whence comes my help…”
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Mrs. Orita Brown-Stubbs
Board of Director
Mrs. Orita Joan Brown-Stubbs was born June 9th 1967. Nassau, Bahamas. She is a single parent and a proud mother of two beautiful daughters, Carlrita Robinson and Mikayla Stubbs along with one adorable granddaughter Dazariah Bullard.
A Bahamian my Father is deceased (James Otis Brown), A descendant of Black Point Exuma. My Mother is still alive Joan Moss Brown born in Nassau, Bahamas.
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Mrs. Orita Brown-Stubbs obtained her early education started at Kingsway Academy, St.John’s College prep Bahamas Academy Jr high and The Government High School where she graduated. Mrs. Orita Brown-Stubbs attended Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (B.T.V.I) after high school where She received A Diploma of Certification in Cosmetology, Massage Therapy, Nail Technology, as well as, Construction Technology Trade Certificate in Maintenance Technician Painting and Decorating. Mrs. Orita Brown-Stubbs is a Nail technician and a Massage therapist by profession and a small business owner for over 30 years.
At the age of 54 she went back to school and now a Certified Councilor, as of recent, she has been gainful employed at The Department of Labour as a Public Employment Service Officer (P.E.S. officer). Mrs. Orita Brown- Stubbs is a Christian believer and member of the Anglican Faith. She attends St.Gregory’s The Great located on Carmichael Road. She was elected The President of the A.C.W. Group (Anglican Church Women). Mrs. Orita Brown -Stubbs currently hold the position as Chairman of Carmichael Branch of the Progressive Liberal Party (P.L.P.) from 2017 to present.
She is also Stalwart Councilor in the P.L.P. party. Mrs. Orita Brown -Stubbs a Warrior of excellence a proud member of One Family Junkanoo Group and Community Organization since, 1984 to present. A member of the leadership and Steering team and a Executive team member of that great organization, as a Front-line dancer. Also she stands as the current Chairman of the Outreach Committee of the Junkanoo Corporation New Providence (JCNP). She is also an Executive team member of the JCNP. Last but not least Mrs. Orita Brown-Stubbs is a current Broad member of the Bridge Authority (T.B.A.). Mrs. Orita Brown-Stubbs a True, True Bahamian, She Loves her God, her family, and her Country. In God She Trust.
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Mr. Addison M.W. Cooper, J.P.
Board of Director
Mr. Addison M.W. Cooper, J.P. serves as a member of the Board of Directors for The Bridge Authority.
Mr. Cooper’s journey began in Tarpum Bay, Eleuthera, where he was born on November 26th, 1953. He attained a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of West Florida.
He was employed by Touche Russ Chartered Accounting firm in Nassau and later secured a position as a manager at BAIC Hatchet Bay, Eleuthera before its closure in 1985. He then established a successful business, Unique Hardware and Lumber followed by another successful business, Unique Hotel and Villas in which he currently serves as the President of both entities in Eleuthera.
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Mr. Cooper is a dedicated sportsman having served for several years as President of the Palmetto Point Sporting Club and sponsored several sporting teams. Additionally, he served as Vice-President of the Bahamas Softball Federation and was inducted into the Bahamas Softball Federation Hall of Fame in April 2009. His extensive contributions to civic and volunteer organisations have been well recognized across the island of Eleuthera. He continues to serve as the founding chairman of the Passing Jacks Festival Committee, nonprofit organization, which is focused on assisting the elderly, sick and disabled individuals with medical expenses.
Mr. Cooper is married to Mrs. Sherrin Cooper, a retired Senior Nursing Officer. They have an adult son named Khaalith and are members of Wesley Methodist Church in Palmetto Point, Eleuthera where they attend regularly.
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Ms. Anya Mackey
Board Secretary
Ms. Anya Mackey is an experienced Business Administrator with over 20 years of expertise in the Hospitality Industry. In her role as an Executive Assistant, she holds a Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence (PACE) from the American Society of Administrative Professionals and a Certification in Procurement and Logistics Management from the University of The Bahamas. Ms. Mackey’s passion for continuous learning drives her commitment to ongoing professional development.
Mr. Basil Longley
General Manager
Basil G. Longley currently serves as the General Manager of The Bridge Authority.
Mr. Longley is a highly qualified technology professional with over 40 yrs experience having started at BTC as Telecommunications Technician, IBM for 20yrs as Computer Engineer and Professional Services Specialist, followed by 22yrs employment with a major International Bank as Senior Manager for Regional Technical Support, Project Management, Strategy and ATM Channel.
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Mr. Longley has achieved several successes during his career having led the implementation of Computer Networks / Systems / ATMs / Call Centers and the deployment of over 200 ATMs regionally.
He was also responsible for the leadership and management of people across 16 countries in the Caribbean including Bahamas / Barbados / Jamaica / Cayman / Eastern Caribbean Islands.
Mr. Longley completed his High School Education at St. John’s College and holds a Master’s Degree in Management Information Systems and a number of professional certifications and training
in Telecommunications Engineering, IBM AS 400, LAN / WAN Networking, Structured Cabling, Power Management, ATM Installation and Support.
Mr. Longley is President of Perpall Tract Community Association, Chairman of Fort Charlotte Community Development Association and Board Director for Governor General Youth Award Program. He is a member of St. Mary’s Anglican Church and is married to Mrs. Carolyn Longley and the couple is blessed with three children Basil Jr., Dr. Cheree Longley-Thompson, and Baron Longley.
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Ms. Shanette Kelly
Human Resources & Operations Manager
Shanette Kelly is the Executive Human Resources and Operations Manager at The Bridge Authority providing leadership and support in Human Resource issues to ensure the implementation of the HR strategies aligns with the operational plans of the Authority; with the oversight of 50 employees.
Ms. Kelly is an accomplished Human Resources Manager with over 15 years of experience in Business Management and 11 years of progressive experience in the field of Human Resources with local companies. She is a consummate professional with demonstrated strengths in customer service, time management and trend analysis and salary surveys.
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Ms. Kelly began her early career in the Financial Services Industry where she served as the Executive Assistant to the Vice President of Marketing at Family Guardian Insurance Company Ltd. with over 15 years’ of involvement in that sector. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, an Associate Degree in Marketing along with several other financial certifications including Professional Customer Service, Associate Customer Service and Cert. Level II under the FLMI Designation. She is also a member of the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM) and is presently pursuing a certification in International Human Resources Law and Professional Life Coaching.
Ms. Kelly is a decisive manager who has comprehensive knowledge of Human Resources Procedures and Standard Operating Procedures including but not limited to HR guidance, integration of policies, international recruitment, contract negotiations, training, HRIS management, compensation and benefits structure and regulatory compliance.
Ms. Kelly also serves as an Associate Pastor at Glory Tabernacle Ministries and is part of several leadership boards. As the President of the Women’s Ministry, her passion and focus are on assisting hurting women regardless of age, religion, demographics, etc. and to aid in teaching them to understand their true identity in Christ; even from a state of brokenness to wholeness and comprehending God’s plans and purpose for their lives. With the wealth of knowledge concerning the Word of God and a strong background in cultivating positive relationships, Ms. Kelly intends to be a transformational leader and a trendsetter of her time. Ms. Kelly is a mother of three beautiful children.
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