The cost estimate for renovations to the new Sunshine Coast Regional District office has ballooned to $2.4 million.
The SCRD board is holding a special meeting with its architect at 12:30 p.m. March 11 to consider the options for trimming that cost. In January, the SCRD voted to cap the cost of the renovations at $2 million, and the architect presented a plan, which was estimated to cost less than that.
But last week, a more detailed cost estimate from a quantity surveyor came in $400,000 higher. SCRD administrator Doug Holmes told the board that although the quantity surveyor's estimate should be more precise, the total cost of the renovations won't be certain until the work is complete and all invoices have been received.
The SCRD bought the former Ministry of Forests building on Field Road for just over $1 million, and budgeted $2 million to expand and renovate the building. The board adopted a "green" philosophy for the building renovation, aiming to use less water and electricity, provide natural daylight and fresh air in offices and to use local, recycled or renewable materials in the construction where possible.
Part of the cost of the new offices will be covered by the sale of the SCRD's old offices at the end of Wharf Avenue in Sechelt. The SCRD has already sold its Green Gables building on Teredo Street, and is now trying to sell its main offices in the waterfront Royal Terraces building.
