The concept details of Genview using the eastern portion of our Museum for a sales office is being further fleshed out.
(If you are new to this proposal for our King Museum, click here for more.)
There have been substantive modifications to the exterior “look” as a result of valuable input from members of the Heritage Committee.
The latest concept is visible below: it is much simpler and less intrusive. The original concept was criticized for hiding the Kinghorn school house with a “mythologized quaint country style wrapping.” I will confess that I did not see this initially; but as soon as this was articulated I recognized the validity of that criticism. That temporary failure on my part is a good reminder of why one has citizen advisory groups!
It was agreed at May 2nd Council that:
- Our CAO should start process to develop an agreement with Genview to get clarity on critical details: specific time lines, specifications for storage of artifacts currently stored in the east wing, accommodation of museum programming, parking, specifications for structural work (e.g. paint colour, siding) etc.
- Consultation with Museum Board members is scheduled.
- It was also confirmed that it is Council who will make the decision to sign the final contract.
I am well aware that there are individuals who are totally opposed to the concept, no matter what the details are. I respect their right to differ.
Having said that, I continue to believe that the “spirit” of the museum will not be irrevocably damaged and that indeed there will be long term benefit by fixing some serious maintenance issues.
Further, I think there is value in this kind of collaborative partnership between the Township and Genview.
To see the report tabled at Council and to see more drawings, click here.
To re-iterate my questions which will have to be satisfactorily answered before agreeing to sign a contract, see below.
- What are the specifications for the temporary storage solution for the artifacts currently stored in the area which is to be retrofitted to serve as the Genview Sales Office? Specifically: does it have temperature & humidity controls? Will it be secure? Is access easy enough to accommodate the changing of exhibits? Is it large enough?
- Will the programming at the Museum be affected negatively?
- Is the parking adequate? At 05/02 Council it was indicated that current parking is not adequate and new space will need to be provided. It was also said that parking area would be paved. Need to understand details.
Debbie, Speaking as a member of the King Heritage Committee I found your synopsis of the Museum project clear and to the point. The public/private partnership seems to be beneficial to the Museum’s future community contribution. The principal concerns for the Heritage Committee were the possible loss of the focal point of the 150 yr. old schoolhouse by shielding it with more dominant roof additions, and also retaining simplicity of design since this is basically a simple rural building. We hope that Council can keep in mind the premise of maintaining simplicity and also the importance of using good, long-lasting materials for the alterations.
Debbie
I find the front elevation of the proposed addition very attractive and an enhancement to the current building. That additional space will ultimately be available for museum activites is surely a positive feature of this opportunity.