Council has approved the construction and the budget for the King City Library and Seniors Centre. This community hub meets the needs of our Seniors and our library users. For the Seniors there is benefit due to a change in programme opportunities and more space. For the library users there is not only more space but a configuration appropriate for contemporary needs and the digital world. Very importantly this facility is being financed in a manner respectful of the tax payor. Total budget is $10.7 million. 50% is funded by development charges. 28% ($3 million) is funded by a 10 year debenture. Staff report provides full review.

As reviewed in the report this facility is costing more than originally estimated. I am comfortable that every effort has been made to meet the original one including elimination of premium priced green features, modification of design and a second bid process. As the facilities are required I believe we need to act now: costs are not going to decrease; the need is not going to disappear. I applaud the Library Board for being tenacious; they stayed true to the vision but were sensitive to the fiscal realities.

Stay tuned for details on the schedule and how library services will be delivered during the construction phase.

Note: Its not my practice to report on Council decisions after they are made. Due to technical issues I was not able to review this report before the July 9 Council meeting. Given its importance I have made this post.