The initiative to allow Genview to utilize the east section of our Museum as a sales office is essentially moving into execution phase now.  At 08/29 Council authorized the entering into an agreement to cover the temporary tenancy.
 
 
 
 

From the outset I have considered this initiative as one offering opportunities.  We will see important maintenance work done, such as a new roof; given our poor financial profile this is very good.  We are showing a willingness to work differently, to try different commercial relationships in order to move forward; this is important as public-private initiatives will be increasingly important to us.   Finally, we are achieving this without damaging our museum’s artifacts; nor are we jeopardizing the programming capability of the Museum.

To further ensure the last point I requested that the agreement be amended to include a commitment on response time to identification of a scheduling conflict.  Despite the assurances of Genview’s intent to avoid programming conflicts I think it is appropriate to include a commitment on response time as over the life of this agreement personnel can change and verbal good will agreements can be lost.

I am pleased to see the very specific time parameters in the agreement.  “The one year lease term will commence upon completion of construction which is expected to occur within three months of the formal signing of the lease and renovation agreement. Extension of the term of lease can only be at the discretion and agreement of the Township. At the end of the one year term, Genview Homes will vacate the premises and return them to a condition that is appropriate to ongoing museum operations.” You can  read the whole report and agreement here.

One concern has been the aesthetic.  I think we have reached a very acceptable design thanks to the suggestions and advice from the Heritage Committee and the proponent’s willingness to listen.  To quote Fiona Cowles, Co Chair of Heritage Committee:  “I believe that the old schoolhouse should not be adversely affected by the new rooflines on the east and west wings …..the pitch of the roofs should allow the focus on the old schoolhouse as the core of
the building to continue.”

Next step is to approve the zoning bylaw amendment to allow a temporary sales office at the museum site.  The required public meeting for September 26th; you can read public notice here.