Museum targets 2014 vote

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: February 10, 2013 1:00 AM
Greater Vernon Museum officials don’t want to rush getting a new facility.  President Ian Hawes told the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee Thursday that a borrowing referendum for a facility could be held in conjunction with the 2014 civic election. “We have to get cost estimates together. We want to go to voters with a comprehensive plan,” he said. The museum board has tentatively approved the City of Vernon’s suggestion to expand the current structure instead of constructing a completely new  building. “We want to ensure the existing facility can take a renovation so we end up with a facility that meets current needs and lasts another 45 to 50 years,” said Hawes. An architect recently toured the site and indication that a renovation and expansion is possible. There is the possibility the expansion could  include climate control to preserve artifacts. The museum board is asking GVAC to approve a site, but restructuring of GVAC’s cultural service must occur before any decision is made. Director Jim Garlick believes that process fits with the museum. “They need time and they are being realistic about their timeline so it’s done properly,” he said.