The Architects presented an elegant yet very efficient design that includes adaptable and multi-purpose community spaces, a double-gymnasium (dividable into four sections), a double arena (main arena with 1000 seats; second with less than 100 seats), an indoor walking/running track, a concession area, change rooms and washrooms, and an atrium / lobby area.
Based on an item-by-item-review of the design and informed by their experience on more than 30 community facilities, Ball Construction estimated the construction costs at $32.5 million. The construction managers also pegged total project costs – including design, furniture, fixtures, permits – at $36.2 million.
Staff stated that the Community Centre will cost $46.67 for an average residential property (assessed at $309,200) or 3.44% on the 2016 Pelham portion of the tax bill only. That amount will allow the Town to purchase a 30-year debenture of $9.07 million from Infrastructure Ontario. Since Council already approved project funds in our 2016 Budget, the Town will not require any further property tax increases to build the Centre beyond this year. The Town will fund the remaining costs through development charges, East Fonthill land sales, and fundraising.
Last Monday, Council received all this information and approved the plans “in principle.” We also directed staff to tender for the design / build of the electrical and mechanical components of the facility – subject to final approval by Council – so that we might not hold up the project. Finally, Council also directed staff to organize a public meeting on April 25 so that people wishing to make formal presentations about the plan can do so. Council will consider those presentations and a comprehensive staff report so that we might make a final determination that night.
So that you and your friends and neighbours can become better informed about the project, the Town will be hosting open houses on Saturday, April 16 Fire Station #2 (Fenwick) from 10AM to noon and at Fire Station #1 (Fonthill) from 2PM to 4PM. The Architect, Construction Manager, Town Staff, volunteer Architectural Design Advisory Committee members and Councillors will all be available at the open houses to speak with you.
In the meantime, I would encourage you to check out the Town’s recently revised webpage about the Community Centre at www.pelham.ca/community-centre. The page includes information about the plans, the costs, the financing, and answers to questions that people may have about the project. The page also includes the views of the volunteer members of the Architectural Design Advisory Committee. Please check it out at your convenience so that you may know more about this very important and exciting project for our Town.
