Bracebridge general committee signed off on a final design for the new Bracebridge bandshell during their latest meeting but not before a discussion on the $385,000 price tag.
Coun. Andrew Struthers said he’s heard concerns from the public over the cost. He said one could essentially build a four-bedroom house for the same cost as the bandshell.
Geoff Carleton, the Bracebridge director of public works, pointed out that the structure is not simply a gazebo in the park but a complete bandshell, which is more complicated. He added that the cost will also include the removal of the existing bandshell.
The list of projects for Memorial Park also includes an additional $180,000 for washrooms in the park and $129,000 for new landscaping.
Mayor Rick Maloney said the Town is always interested in partnering with other businesses and organizations to help offset the cost, and they will continue to pursue those avenues.
Coun. Debbie Vernon questioned whether, with the upgrades, there would be enough power in the park to potentially freeze ice on an outdoor rink. She was informed by staff that there would be enough power.
The committee’s decision must still be ratified by council during their meeting this Wednesday.
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Norm Raynor says
I disagree with Geoff Carleton. It is a gazebo in the park! There will be no walls to create acoustic effect. There will be lights and plugs for electricity. Please explain where the complications are. If a contractor is paid $500 per hour to demolish and truck the old band shell away and it takes them 10 hours that would cost $5000. Add another $5000 for tipping fees. Removal of the old bandshell would cost $10,000. If the new floor costs $100,000,and the new roof costs $100,000, and the posts and electrical wiring cost $50,000 that is a total of $250,000. Geoff, you need to sharpen your pencil. In the words of Oscar Leroy ” I pay your wages”. And don’t forget it is tax dollars we are talking about.
Dana Viking says
Norm has forgotten the ‘Bracebridge Markup’ on building projects for the Town. Multiply by by 2 or 3 to get the final cost. Bureaucrats don’t have pencils to sharpen in our Town.
Even a generous 2 times doesn’t get to the amount projected. Maybe far better to build that 4 bedroom house in the park and make it a party house.
Allen Hutchings says
Bandshell noun a bandstand in the form of a large concave shell with special acoustic properties.
Geoff Carleton you need to do a better job than what you are doing now. This structure in no way is a band shell. It is an open air stage. What is so complicated about the structure?
This town from council to paid employees waste our tax dollars. Do a better job all of you!