LAURIE WEIR
The long-debated future of Rideau Lakes’ municipal offices took a major step forward Monday, as council voted to approve construction drawings and issue tenders for a $4.5-million retrofit and expansion of the Chantry municipal office.
The move, passed by the municipal services committee on May 12, had 5-3 vote in favour after weeks of division around the council table.
The project, which includes significant upgrades and a new addition, is expected to bring the aging building up to modern standards. A newly released Class A estimate pegged the total cost at $4,513,445, with financing options now under review by staff.
“This has been discussed for years,” said Deputy Mayor Paula Banks. “We believe this is the most cost-effective solution for the municipality. The staff working here deserve a safe, functional office, and this will deliver that while staying within reasonable financial expectations.”
Supporters also argued that abandoning the Chantry site to pursue a new “greenfield” office elsewhere would cost the township significantly more, with added costs to convert the existing office back to an alternate use.
But opponents, led by Mayor Arie Hoogenboom, urged caution.
“This is the largest single capital expenditure we’ve made in 25 years,” Hoogenboom said. “There has been no formal public consultation, financing is not yet secured, and the township risks taking on long-term debt at a time when interest rates and construction costs remain uncertain.”
The mayor also voiced concerns about rushing the process and the possibility of costly design changes later.
Coun. Jeff Banks, who voted in favour, dismissed those fears. “We’ve consistently managed our debt responsibly,” he said. “Sometimes you have to borrow to make necessary improvements. We’ve been running surpluses, and I’m confident we can manage this.”
As part of the motion, council passed an amendment, tabled by Coun. Sue Dunfield, directing the township’s treasurer to explore all available financing options, rather than committing exclusively to Infrastructure Ontario.
The project will also include a new septic system and dual furnace system to meet modern standards.
This recommendation by the committee will be brought to the next council meeting for final approval.
