The place where Red Deer city council does its formal business will get a new look to the tune of up to $145,500.
Civic leaders decided on Monday to go with a “refresh” look this year instead of staff-recommended’s full refurbishment, which would have cost $195,000, plus furniture of $52,500 for a total of $247,500.
The refresh improvement of $93,000 will see council chambers get new countertops, as well as painting and refinishing of the main feature wall behind where the city manager and mayor currently sit. Council also approved new furniture to replace some of the seating, but it’s not expected to cost $52,500.
The budgeted amount would come out of the capital projects reserve.
Council agreed some renovations needed to be done to the outdated room, considering that City Hall expansion has been pushed back at least 10 years.
But council was at odds over whether they should go with a more revamped look as was suggested by staff. This option would a change in layout and an increase in seating to 84 from 60 presently.
The mayor, city manager and city clerk chairs would be brought down to the main level. The councillors would be able to better see each other within the horseshoe configuration. The public podium would be placed close to the public entrance, instead of at the far north of the room.
“I think we need the change,” said Councillor Lynne Mulder, who figured the “reconfiguration” would be worth it in the end.
Councillor Dianne Wyntjes liked the reconfiguration as well because it would offer more public seating and a new look.
“A 10-year plan is a long ways away,” she said. “It’s a good investment for city council.”
But Councillor Buck Buchanan wondered when the renovations would end for a City Hall that needs improvements, including mechanical upgrades.
“Is it your office next?” he said, referring to Mayor Morris Flewwelling’s office. “The city manager’s office next? I think there’s not much change (with the more expensive renovations). Our backs are still to the people.”
In the end, Councillor Chris Stephan opposed even the “refresh” option.
“I think it’s a matter of living within our means and doing what’s best for our residents,” he said. “In my opinion, it’s a complete waste of money.”
Earlier this year, during 2011 budget talks, council had also approved to spend $25,000 on webcasting software so that people can see regular council meetings live through the City of Red Deer website. Previous meetings will also be easy to access online and other committee meetings will be available online too.
Council had also earlier approved $52,000 towards buying touch screen monitors and E-voting software. Elected leaders will be able to view council agendas electronically from their chamber seats. Minutes would be produced immediately, eliminating the need for manual record keeping. As part of these costs, the carpeting would be replaced.
l Council also rejected increasing the West Park East secondary suite density limit up to 23 per cent from 15 per cent.
ltester@www.reddeeradvocate.com