Council finds minor savings in 2014 capital budget

Kincardine council found few savings in the 2014 capital budget at the second round of budget talks on Jan. 20.

Of the long list of high-priority projects identified by municipal staff, council scrapped just one: a new $7,500 microphone system for the council chamber.

The most contentious item discussed on the list was the $1.449 million to make repairs to the municipal administrative centre, which staff recommend be funded through an Infrastructure Ontario loan.

Councillor Mike Leggett motioned to defer the work until council can see a real estate assessment and consider relocation.

I would like a lot more information before we spend this much money on this building, he said, but acknowledged repairs to the heating and cooling system at the building are needed immediately.

The expenses to operate this building are huge, said Leggett. The expenses to repair this place are huge, and it is larger than what we need.

I would be shocked if you would find anywhere that would serve us nearly as good as this building, said Mayor Larry Kraemer, but Im not ready to spend $1.4 million on repairs either.

Chief Administrative Officer Murray Clarke said council could conduct only the most pressing repairs to the buildings exterior and HVAC system budgeted at $1.282 million.

Clarke said sealing the exterior skin of the building to prevent water infiltration and replacing the HVAC system were vital to its continued use and protecting its resale value.

Its a wonderful building, said Clarke. Its practical and serves the purpose. I think it is a good investment.

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Council finds minor savings in 2014 capital budget