Council has committed to a funding model to facilitate the development of a new library in Sanctuary Point.
At the Ordinary meeting, Councillors voted to borrow up to $14.4 million phased over four years and continue to seek funding opportunities from state and federal governments.
In April, the Department of Infrastructure confirmed to Council that the $7.5 million in Federal Government funding is tied to the originally proposed two-storey building expected to cost $30 million, and that the lower-cost single-storey option could not be funded as a variation under the grant.
“Given this situation, I’m calling on the Federal Member for Gilmore and her government to make the $7.5 million available for our new proposed library,” said Mayor Patricia White.
“The fact that we are forced to borrow such a significant amount of money because there is no guarantee of federal funds is unacceptable. The Council cannot afford a $30 million library, and we have taken the responsible step to reduce costs by half,” Cr White said.
As Council continues to demonstrate strong financial responsibility, current projections show it is well placed to manage and repay the loan.
“This has been a long-standing project of Council, and we are committed to doing everything we can to bring this important community facility to life as soon as possible,” she said.
“We know that the existing library in Sanctuary Point is too small to service the broader community, and a new facility will create a welcoming hub for learning, connection and community life.
“Council will continue to pursue government funding opportunities that would reduce borrowings, while we progress the project and avoid further delays.” she said.
It has been resolved by Council to deliver an economical single-story library at the corner of Paradise Beach Road and Kerry Street.
Next steps in the project is to develop a feasibility study, design, development application, procurement and construction.
Key activities include a feasibility study, DA process, detailed design and procurement with construction anticipated to commence within the next four years.
The proposed development would replace the existing undersized library in Sanctuary Point and support the 30,000 residents in the Bay and Basin communities.
