The Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is currently awaiting legal advice to decide its next course of action concerning the two garbage compactors that were procured by F&H Computer Supplies and Merchandisers since May, but did not meet the council’s specifications.
Originally, the M&CC had sought to recoup $10 million from F&H Computer Supplies and Merchandisers due to failure of the company to meet the specifications outlined in the procurement agreement. The defects had left the council grappling with non-functioning garbage compactors, causing monthly expenses of $3 million, for having Cevons Waste Management address the city’s waste needs.
However, a twist occurred when a faction within the council decided, without consulting the entire body, to pursue an alternative course of action. This faction opted to have the compactors repaired by a technician, a move that stirred controversy and animosity among council members at last month’s statutory meeting.
The decision to proceed with repairs without full council approval has ignited a feud within the M&CC, with accusations of unilateral decision-making and lack of transparency. Council meetings have reportedly been marked by heated debates and tensions between councillors.
In an attempt to find a resolution to the impasse and navigate the legal complexities of the situation, the M&CC has decided to seek guidance from its legal advisors. The legal advice, expected to be delivered to the Town Clerk’s office during the course of this week, will play a crucial role in determining the appropriate path forward in addressing the garbage compactor debacle and the associated financial claims against F&H Computer Supplies and Merchandisers.
In June, former mayor of Georgetown Ubraj Narine had expressed optimism and enthusiasm regarding the acquisition of new garbage compactor units. In a statement, he had emphasised the city’s commitment to creating a cleaner and greener environment for its residents and the importance of investing in advanced waste management infrastructure.
The purchase of the compactor units was seen as a significant step in this direction; the expectation being that they would contribute to more efficient waste collection and disposal.
