The decision to approve the $4.5 million design of Phase 1 of the Activity and Aquatic Centre, was put off until the next Council meeting, on Oct 6. Council tabled the decision at the request of project lead Christopher Read, as he needed more time to put together a proposal to borrow $1 million so that renovations previously put into Phase 2 can be completed at the same time.

“I just need time to make a palatable plan,” said Read, adding that he wanted to “put forward a better strategy for borrowing.”

“What we’re asking is, if we come up with a plan, would you support us?” said Alice Lettner, director of finance for the town.

According to Read’s calculations, a loan is the most cost effective way to complete the desired renovations. He expects that with a loan at 3.5 per cent, over ten years, the $200 thousand of interest would be equivalent to the inflation increase the town would pay if they were to hold off and do some of the renovations later.

With the additional funds, some of the more urgent renovations would be included. For example, replacing the existing roof on the Activity Centre (which must be done within one year anyway) would be part of the renovations. Also, by doing this renovation at the same time as putting in a skylight and renovating the lobby the town will be saving money, said Read.

Municipal manager, George Krefting, said he fully supported the strategy. “It makes sense to do it all at once,” he said, “but it will take time.”

Before Council can decide to borrow there would have to be a lending bylaw written, said Krefting, noting that it would take another three Council meetings before the official decision could be made.