In St Brelade, residents and business owners are voicing growing concerns over a wave of empty shops and the rising cost of living, issues they hope the next round of politicians will address in the upcoming June election.
As part of its pre-election roadshow, the BBC visited St Brelade on Tuesday, where locals shared their frustrations. Joe Pinzari, who owns two businesses on Les Quennevais Parade, said he was forced to close one due to skyrocketing rents and operating costs.
"I remember as a kid, this area was buzzing. Now there's no reason for people to come up here," Pinzari said. He pointed to rents eating up as much as 27% of his takings, making it impossible to keep the Bean Café open. "People now are struggling with the cost of living."
Pinzari proposed a local enterprise centre to support struggling businesses, offering advice and temporary aid until they recover.
Several residents highlighted the paradox of a wealthy island where food banks have become a necessity. Louis Bowen remarked, "This is a rich island and you have people going to the food bank. That should not be happening."
Ruth Perchard, who works at a church, added, "I meet people who are really struggling, even those who are working. For some, it's a choice between eating or heating." She called for higher taxes on the very rich.
Tony Bellows, editor of parish magazine La Baguette, said improvements in social housing are needed to bridge the gap between homeowners and renters, noting that the States already have some control over rents.
Environmental concerns also surfaced, with Greg Morel of National Park Jersey urging the next set of politicians to protect the island's natural beauty while allowing necessary development. "Environmental wellbeing underpins social and economic wellbeing. People want to live here because it's such a nice place," he said.
The election is set for June 7. Candidates for deputy in St Brelade are listed on the BBC website.