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Acton/Georgetown, Friday, September 7, 2007 5 Library expansion budget climbs CYNTHIA GAMBLE Staff Writer The new Georgetown branch of the Halton Hills Public Library will be bigger, better-- and more costly. At a special council meeting next Monday (Sept. 10), Halton Hills council will vote whether to support the preliminary budget of $10 million for the library expansion project. That's up from the $8 million placed in the capital forecast two years ago. However, the $8 million was an estimate only for a 20,000 sq. ft. facility to be located at the Gellert Centre. The new estimates now take into account a three-floor 28,000 sq. ft. renovation and expansion of the existing Church St. building as well as the adjacent property. Total cost is estimated at $8.4 million. "The Library Board is pleased that the Georgetown Branch renovation/expansion can accommodate a third floor of approximately 2,100 sq. feet which will release much needed space for collections as well as seating and study space. (Bigger collections emerged as the highest priority in a patron survey). The cost of the third floor represents three per cent of the overall budget, but the public service benefits are significant," said Library Director Jane Diamanti. Also raising the total: the $384,000 purchase price of the adjacent property (50 Market St.) and its demolition, hiring a project manager, the $500,000 cost of the library's temporary quarters, the possible hiring of a LEED (environmental design) consultant, landscaping design services or possible higher than projected prices. The money will come from development charges and reserve funds. "As noted in the report, the construction budget for the expansion and renovation is $8,438,000. Most of the additional costs beyond construction are associated with expanding onsite, which include the acquisition and preparation of the adjacent property and the need to operate from a temporary location during the construction phase," said Diamanti. "The Georgetown branch will need to close for roughly 15 months in order for construction to proceed efficiently... "The conceptual drawings for the Georgetown Branch renovation/expansion incorporate the priorities identified during the extensive consultation process undertaken earlier this year with library patrons, staff, councillors, and other stakeholders. The Library Board eagerly anticipates Phase Two of the project, which will result in the development of detailed design drawings and commencement of construction." At the same meeting Recreation and Parks Director Terry Alyman will outline to council that $1.5 million could be invested in improvements to the Cultural Centre's Gallery, John Elliott Theatre and common areas with the library. Council already had committed $1 million to upgrades and development charges could cover another $529,000. Among the many recommended improvements are a theatre balcony, shop and café space, new entrance atrium including stair and elevator, lower level washrooms and community room, and lobby upgrades. Many of these improvements are already included on the architects' design concepts, which are posted on the library's website, www.library.hhlp.on.ca At the same meeting, the Recreation Department is recommending closure of the Dick Licata Pool to be replaced by a $670,000 splash pad in Dominion Gardens Park. The special meeting gets under way in council chambers at 5 p.m. Finance director Ed DeSousa will also make a presentation on how the Town will pay for the future capital projects. CAN'T BEAR ANOTHER WINTER? SAVE up to $256 Keep yourself warm this winter with a high efficiency Regency fireplace - you will think of them as furnaces with a view! Purchase your Regency wood or gas fireplace, stove or insert until November 9th, 2007 to receive a FREE Blower/Remote Control/Vent Kit. See in store for promotions details. www.regency-fire.com APPLEBY SYSTEMS 877-8990 Fireplace, Heating & Air Conditioning Sales & Service 118 Guelph St. Georgetown (at Maple) Hours: Monday - Friday 9-5; Saturday 11-4; Appointments available after hours upon request WE'VE SAVED THE BEST FOR LAST! ACTON SOCCER CLUB ACTON SOCCER CLUB INDOOR Season INDOOR Season 2007-2008 Registration 2007-2008 Registration ON-LINE PAYMENT www.actonsoccer.org VISA, MASTERCARD or Cheque* payment * Participants wait-listed until cheque is received. DOLLAR STRETCHER DAZE 8 Main St North Acton (519) 853-9615 (Same plaza as Giant Tiger store) Georgetown's Premium 60 Plus Living Cash or Personal Cheques Only For on-line cheque drop-off: Bring 2 (two) printed copies for payment/tax receipt. NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!! GOOD SELECTION OF SUITES REMAIN DISCOVER CARE FREE LIVING & COUNTRY VIEWS COACHES required for all ages! There will be two 12-week sessions: Sep 29 - Dec 21 2007, and Jan 5 - Mar 28 2008. There will tentatively be tournaments running over Christmas and Mar 14 - Mar 28. Born 2002-2003: $110 for each 12-week session, $210 for both Born 1999-2001: $130 for each 12-week session, $250 for both Born 1990-1998: $150 for each 12-week session, $290 for both Adult Rec (Men, Women, or Co-Ed): $160 for each 12 week session, $310 for both. VISIT OUR SALES CENTRE TODAY 211 GUELPH STREET, GEORGETOWN OPEN: TUES. - SAT. 11 AM - 4 PM All new players to Acton Soccer Club must provide proof of birth (copy of birth certificate/passport/healthcare card) in order to have their registration validated. CALL 905.702.1247 bennettvillage.ca www.actonsoccer.ora www.actonsoccer.org Acton Soccer Club 519-853-8317