Council in Wellington County considered pulling the pavilion set to be built at the Indigenous gathering circle in Aboyne out of their 10 year plan at a meeting Thursday.
Coun. Steve O’Neill suggested its removal stating it’s not an essential. In a vote, O’Neill was the sole opposition to leaving the pavilion, which would cost $1.3 million to build, in the plan for now.
While Mary Lloyd, chair of the information, heritage and seniors’ committee, said she was disappointed to hear the concern over the new building, she added she can gather what council was thinking.
"I would prefer to see it deferred as opposed to cancelled completely. I recognize that we do have financial constraints. This pavilion would offer an opportunity for us to have some activities there that are very enjoyable for all," Lloyd explained.
The pavilion would have a circular plaza and a curved pathway. The pathway would connect the Indigenous gathering circle to the wall opening of the pavilion.
Coun. Doug Breen pointed out the county could build something for half as much. If nobody uses it though he says, it would be a bigger waste of money.
Lloyd pointed out the cost has risen for the project due to a spike in the costs of materials.
"The rising construction costs were something that was brought to the top by the architect who said materials we were talking about have gone crazy in cost," Lloyd said.
"So, moreso than the cost of labour it's the cost of materials that have gone up so much," she concluded.
Lloyd added the addition would be a great resting spot for those using nearby trails.
"There's access to the trails that run through the museum property. So, if you need a little bit of respite from the sun or the walk or any of those things it would give you an opportunity to sit and quietly repose and bring yourself forward and be ready to finish your trail walk," Lloyd stated.
Discussions around the pavilion will continue in the coming weeks as county staff continue to work through the 2024 budget.
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