City Engineer advises urgent relocation from rundown City Hall
After an inspection done on the City Hall building last week, City Engineer Colvern Venture has concluded that the building has deteriorated further and urgent relocation of staff is necessary.
The information was disclosed at a statutory meeting held yesterday in the Council Chamber at City Hall.
At the meeting, several councillors raised concerns about the safety of the building, while noting alternatives of renting another location or seeking some other sort of temporary housing.
Deputy Mayor Alfred Mentore suggested that the Kitty Market hall be used to temporarily host the council’s meetings,
but in relation to the relocation of the staff occupying the City Hall building he said further discussion is needed.
He added that the committees affected will meet as they find ways among themselves to determine the way forward.
Just over a week ago, the Fire Service condemned the City Hall building after an inspection.
Fire Chief Kalamadeen Edoo, in a brief comment, previously said the City Hall building early in 2020 was inspected and various deficiencies were found. Subsequently, it was advised that the staff relocate.
Meanwhile, Georgetown Mayor Ubraj Narine stated that the building was previously condemned in 2016, and deemed a fire hazard by the previous Fire Chief Marlon Gentle, who had advised against any mass gatherings at the venue.
While the staff of the municipality continue to occupy the building, Narine explained that the plan is to engage with several stakeholders on the matter to discuss the way forward.
Another alternative being considered by the council is to relocate the Town Clerk’s Office. These options, Narine stated, are presently being discussed.
At a recent press conference he explained that once the administration building is completed to a point that will allow some departments of the council to occupy it, the council will then begin using the $100 million that has been allocated to the restoration of the City Hall building.
The mayor believes that it is wise for the government to sit with the council and engage in discussions to better determine which section of the City Hall building the allotted $100 million should go towards.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Nigel Dharamlall, recently said the development of the city is on the government’s agenda and it will be looking at ways to tender for the restoration of City Hall soon.
Stabroek News had reported that Narine, after taking office, in his attempt to have the building restored, had launched a restoration fund in hopes of sourcing donations to help fund works on the building. However, an update on the status of the restoration fund as of last year revealed it to be stagnant since persons had stopped making donations.