Proposed Osborn Hall Replacement Project

Why not repair the old hall?
The current facility has a number of ‘big ticket’ items that need repair or replacement such as the walls, roof, windows, and flooring. It was estimated that the cost to replace the building would be less than the cost of building new.

Why was the delay so long?
As we have said before, this is a long process. The majority of the delay was due to BC Assessment not having pipeline data included in the property assessment information provided. This information is crucial in order to be able to accurately calculate what residents would pay on their taxes prior to being able to hold a referendum. The Regional Board escalated communication with BC Assessment and the information was finally provided to the Regional District in late 2024. It has taken some time to work behind the scenes to complete all of the background work, including the designs and costs presented.

Would a smaller hall be cheaper?
Not necessarily. Having a scaled down hall that still has a kitchen and washrooms is not that much cheaper because the cost of plumbing, electrical, and safety systems for the kitchen and washrooms is still the most expensive part of the hall.   

Why is the hall so expensive to build?
Any public building has to meet BC safety codes. Before even breaking ground, we're looking at architect/engineer fees, plus the cost of plumbing, electrical, and the extra expense of getting materials up north to the site. Building costs in BC can be anywhere from $275 to $450 per square foot for a standard wood building with kitchen and washrooms.   

Can the PRRD just give the community the money to build whatever they want?
No. The PRRD owns the land and will own the building, so we'll need to be part of the planning and building process right alongside the community and the Association.

How will we pay for anything new?
The Regional District has set aside $500,000 towards a new community facility. If the community votes in favour of a new hall, the rest of the money would have to come from things like grants, community fundraising, private donations, or taxation. If the community votes in favour of some type of outdoor space, the money already allocated would pay for the construction, and the only taxation would be for ongoing maintenance and PRRD costs.

What if I don't support a replacement facility?
That is one possible outcome of the engagement process. If that is the case, the Regional Board of Directors will be informed and will make any future decisions about what to do with the land. No matter what the outcome, the current facility will be removed in 2025 as it has reached the end of its life.

What are the next steps?
The information that is gathered through the survey and community meeting will be used to present a report to the Regional Board of Directors for next steps in the process. If there is a strong desire for one particular option, the Board may support moving forward with a community vote as part of the next steps.