A special meeting is in the works to discuss Greater Vernon’s Cultural Centre.
The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee (GVAC) meets Wednesday, Feb. 21 at 2 p.m. to discuss schematic and design development on the project.
Revery Architecture has completed design and costing work for the centre and provided a proposal to complete the subsequent phases of architectural services.
“To proceed with the next stage of design, which will complete up to and including design development (detailed design) and related work, including pre-construction costing, geotechnical and environmental assessments, will require a commitment of $1 million,” reads a report from Tannis Nelson, Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) manager of culture and community services.
The cost estimate for the 31,000 square foot Cultural Centre is $41.9 million, which includes land, design, soft costs, borrowing fees, and construction costs.
“The RDNO has $28 million secured through borrowing, and the Class C estimate has kicked off an accelerated $13.9 million fundraising campaign that will seek funding through a combination of senior- level government grants, foundation contributions, and community fundraising,” the report said.
The aim is to have the remainder of the required funding by July 2024 to meet the target construction start date of September 2025.
Grant applications are being pursued but the RDNO has reserves that could cover the $1 million needed to proceed.
Or GVAC could defer the decision until July 2024.
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