Mayor Taylor provided an overview of the decisions being made at this meeting and advised that Council has the opportunity to defer any decisions to a later meeting, if necessary. The Chief Administrative Officer thanked Council, PLANT Architect Inc. and the Town Staff for their work on this project. The Commissioner of Development and Infrastructure Services provided an introduction to the presentation and an overview of the process to date. He outlined the purpose of each report on the agenda and introduced both Lisa Rapoport of PLANT Architect Inc., and the Director of Financial Services/Town Treasurer.
Lisa Rapoport, PLANT Architect Inc. reviewed the three phase process to date and advised that the project was currently at the end of phase three, and outlined the draft masterplan concepts. They provided an overview of each of the main destinations on the property including the house, the great lawn, riverine fountain, skate pond, pavilion and wet pond, skating trail, conservatory and diversity gardens, artist studio, and tree playground. The presenter further explained the transportation routes and modes available for use on the property, and the lighting concept for the various pathways. The presenter concluded with an overview of the proposed phasing recommendations and budget estimations.
The Director of Financial Services/Town Treasurer further reviewed the proposed budget and advised that the Mulock House renovation was not included and it would require separate funding. They provided an overview of the project management contingency included in the proposed budget, and the two step funding method recommended. The presenter explained the possible funding framework which included development charges, reserves and grants. The presentation concluded with an overview of the proposed phasing in of the operating budget for no tax impact.
Members of Council queried the presenters regarding the budget for the Mulock house, use of Community Benefits Charge and Development Charges, and sponsorship opportunities. They further discussed bicycle access to the site, various amenities, public access the site throughout phases, and the potential impact on other Town projects.