Okanagan Science Centre makes pitch for funds

Vernon Morning Star Published: Updated: September 07, 2012 6:20 AM
Taxpayers could provide a popular attraction with financial stability.  The Okanagan Science Centre requested Thursday that it become an official function through the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee. That would provide them with annual operating funds. “In general terms, it fits the terms of reference but it will take more discussion to determine the centre’s status,” said Bob Fleming, a GVAC director. “There is merit to their application and they will have to be given a serious look.” Director Catherine Lord supports turning the science centre into a function. “They have a lot of kids go through there and it benefits the community,” she said. About 25,000 to 30,000 people a year access the  centre, with 95 per cent of the programs geared towards youth. Under GVAC bylaws, the only functions presently are the Vernon Public Art Gallery, the Greater Vernon Museum, the Boys and Girls Club, the Vernon Arts Centre and Teen Junction. As part of its request, the science centre is seeking $150,000 annually in five-year core operational funding.“Core funding is essential so we can focus on programs,” said Sandi Dixon, centre executive director. Dixon insists that the centre provides a valuable service in the community. “Not all kids play soccer or are into the arts,” she said. “There are many kids that need the alternate programming the centre offers.” Of the $150,000, $45,000 would help hire an exhibit co-ordinator/curator and $20,000 would add hours to existing staff and add part-time staff. “To reach our goals, we need to increase our staffing,” said Dixon, who says it’s difficult to keep positions filled because competitive wages are lacking. “There’s a lot of pressure and stress to the job but not a lot of money.” The centre received one-time funding of $32,500 this year to alleviate operational pressures.
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EDITORIAL: Grant requests require balance 
Published: September 07, 2012 7:00 AM  Morning Star:
There is absolutely no disputing the critical role the Okanagan Science Centre plays in the community. It has enthralled thousands of youth over the decades and likely encouraged many of them to pursue careers in science. Exhibits have also provided a major draw for tourists passing through Vernon. That’s why OSC’s pursuit of ongoing financial support from taxpayers appears very hard to refuse. It meets all of the criteria the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee has for providing operating grants. There is also the fact that GVAC already provides funding to the Vernon Public Art Gallery, Vernon Arts Centre, the Greater Vernon Museum, Boys and Girls Club and Teen Junction. Why should the science centre be treated any differently than these groups? But as worthwhile as these organizations are, taxpayers have finite resources, particularly when the recession has had a significant impact on many families. There is also the possibility that other non-profits will see the OSC garnering public funds and they will demand the same treatment. Once the door is open, how do the politicians suddenly close it? Agencies like the science centre must also realize that access to tax dollars is no panacea. Fundraising will still have to occur to cover expenses and there may still be times when some tough budget decisions have to be made. Taxpayers can only do so much given the pressures for infrastructure and other initiatives in the community. Ultimately, the science centre will get the support it’s seeking, but it’s a difficult task for GVAC trying to balance the needs of worthwhile organizations and those footing the bill.