SOUTH STORMONT, Ontario – The Raisin Region Heritage Centre holds a special place in the hearts of many throughout the United Counties. On Thursday, Feb. 21, South Stormont Council discussed their options pertaining to the future of the building.
For over 110 years, the Centre has served various purposes. It has existed as an education facility and a convent for approximately 70 years, as well as a library and a museum in its later years of operation.
In 2017, a Building Condition Report (BCR) was conducted and estimated approximately $542,000 for initial building upgrades. This price tag did not include reinstating the facility for public use on the first floor and did not consider accessibility standards or emergency exiting. Kevin Amelotte, municipality Director of Parks and Recreation, believes that a final value for upgrades could amount to triple the predicted cost.
In 2018, a demolition cost of $698,000 was proposed by a contractor, not considering the removal of tanks and contaminated soil, relocation of hydro, air testing and permits. A staff meeting with members of the Cornwall Township Historical Society (CTHS) in the same year yielded no options that could be used to build a solid business plan for the facility.
“I was at the meeting,” said Jim Brownell, CTHS member, during the council meeting. “I know it was a very sorry meeting…it broke the hearts of many people knowing there are so many restrictions…and secondly, the costs. It was just mind boggling. I hope that perhaps another meeting is required, and I would like to be there.”
At the suggestion of Amelotte, council agreed to organize a public consultation session to outline the current conditions of the building, as well seek comments and suggestions from members of the public on the future of the facility. Council is also looking to ensure the safety of the structure and if any immediate repairs need to be made to the outside of the building.
“We would like to give opportunity for more feedback and more suggestions before we make any recommendations,” said Amelotte, who also plans to involve key stakeholders in the community, such as CTHS and members of the parish. Amelotte hopes to hold a temporary online forum to supplement the in-person information session as well, adding extended time for recommendations.
“I would like to have that done in April this year. Once the snow clears, make sure the outside of building is safe…gather all that information. I don’t think we are anywhere close to having a final recommendation…and we could possibly push this towards the 2020 budget,” said Amelotte.
