The
Okanagan Science Centre wants to joins the likes of the Public Art
Gallery and Teen Junction in getting yearly funding from local
government. Board chair Bob Clarke says they've grown to a level that calls for taxpayer support. "We can deliver improved exhibits, improve programs and staff
quality. We can do all that if we have more support from the community." The centre in Polson Park attracts 25,000 yearly visitors and has over 1,000 members. They are asking the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee for $150,000 to hire a curator and cover other costs. Executive director Sandi Dixon says the funding will ensure their long term viability. "As the numbers indicate, there's been considerable growth, but the
staff are way over-taxed. We need to increase our janitorial. We have
hands-on exhibits. The exhibits need servicing and maintenance." GVAC will discuss the request at its October meeting. Chair Mike Macnabb says the centre is a valued and well run organization that hasn't fit into their funding framework in the past. "We're going to have to make that decision, but personally I think
they have a lot of value that they can bring to the community." Director Bob Spiers says it's too early to say if he will support the
funding which will be discussed as part of the budget cycle. "Every one of these applications has merit, but it's a matter of where do you draw the line?"----------
Don Quixote Note: The request is to be added to the GVAC Recreation and Culture Function as an organization eligible to be considered for an annual operating grant. The Science Group is requesting 5 year core operational funding in the amount of $150,000 ANNUALLY.
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