A financial report looking into the proposed Chatham-Kent community hub suggests the project will cost much less than renovating the current Civic Centre, library, and museum.
A detailed update on the project was released by the municipality on Wednesday, after a request from CK's council back in October 2024.
It suggests the hub would, at most, cost around $52.8 million, which is under its $53 million budget. This estimate includes contingencies such as tariffs.
"We're at a point right now that less than five per cent of the materials coming into this project are going to come from the United States," said Dan Amicone, the principal architect of the project.
The municipality believes the project will come in under the $52.8 million estimate. There are several reasons for this including a recent donation of $5 million from the Myers Family Foundation. This money will help build and operate the new library and museum if the project officially moves forward.
"These two important public facilities will enrich the lives for both our youth and all of the citizens of CK," said Rob Myers.
Another reason the municipality believes the project will come under the estimate is the sale of the Civic Centre and library. Back in 2023, the buildings were appraised at around $9 million.
"We've got estimates on this and yes, there's been people who've indirectly asked me when [we're] putting the building up for sale," added CK Mayor Darrin Canniff.
The report also goes over the estimated costs of renovating the current Civic Centre, library, and museum.
It suggests this would cost about $47.8 million, however, municipal officials say this isn't feasible as each building needs to be expanded to maintain accessibility requirements.
The cost to expand and renovate the three buildings is estimated to cost over $108 million.
"I do not recommend that council take that route as it would definitely require a tax increase," said Gord Quinton, CK's Chief Financial Officer.
He added the $53 million proposed budget for the hub has already been included in the municipality's multi-year budget, meaning there won't be any tax increases because of it.
Amicone added the estimated costs for the project and renovations were done by the same consulting firm.
Moving forward, municipal officials hope this report will alleviate concerns that people across the municipality have with the project.
Quinton understands why there's been a lot of anxiety.
"Two years ago when we decided to move forward with this, it was just high level estimates. Now we have facts verified by cost accountants," he added.
As for those who don't want the municipality to spend any money, Canniff explained this isn't feasible. This is because the current buildings are in need of renovations.
Canniff also believes the hub project will have a positive impact on the local economy.
"Naturally, nobody wants to spend money on a civic centre because it doesn't add value, here we have the opportunity to add value by adding a museum and library," he added.
Amicone also estimates the project could create between 200 and 300 jobs.
Meanwhile, people who still have concerns with the project will get a chance later this month to share their feelings to CK's council and municipal staff.
A meeting will take place on May 12, moving from the Civic Centre to the John D. Bradley Convention Centre due to the high number of people expected to attend. It gets underway at 6 p.m.