G/Town City Council to approve Mae’s use of Farnum ground

Following months of mounting public concern, the Georgetown City Council has decided to move forward with an agreement to allow the use of a section of the Farnum ground by Mae’s School.

Georgetown Mayor Alfred Mentore confirmed with the News Room that the agreement, for approval by the Council, will see the school and the community both using the ground. The Mayor said the agreement was not met positively by all parties.

He said “We will move to have that draft agreement and signing with the school.” This agreement will allow the school use of the ground until December 31, 2026. After which, the school must vacate.

The school is also asked to pay $2.5 million over the approved period for the use of public land. This includes a security deposit of $500,000 and $1.5 million will be held as a restoration bond, ensuring the area is returned to its original condition after the school leaves.

It was also suggested that the money be used to uplift the community. Mentore said the Council is open to ongoing dialogue and expects further consultation on how the monies collected from the school will be spent.

The school’s original building was destroyed by a fire on March 5, 2025 and was later granted approval by the Mayor to use the ground for one year while rebuilding its permanent structure [the original building]. However, no permission was given for the construction of permanent buildings, and the ground is to be returned to its original state once the school vacates.

These structures caused concern among the community members.