Arts Referendum Postponed

Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Thursday, 05 December 2013 11:55
Local politicians have applied the brakes to plans for a spring referendum on new arts and cultural facilities. In light of higher cost estimates for an art gallery and museum, the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee has recommended to the RDNO board that plans be postponed for a referendum, but to work on plans and processes to advanced those facilities. No new date has been set for a vote, as staff will further explore the costs and alternatives. The committee may also look at holding a vote just for a new art gallery, which museum officials say they would be okay with. A consultant's report says a new art gallery would cost $13.3 million counting all the costs, while an expanded museum could come in at $21.6 million, for a total of $35 million, double the earlier estimate.