Two sources of funding for Smithers’ Library Renovation project were discussed during Tuesday’s council meeting.
Council approved a submission to the Canada Community Building Fund for a $200,000 grant, which now requires approval from the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako before being sent.
The other was a bylaw allowing the town to borrow up to $1.5 million to help finance the renovations.
“I really appreciate that while we are making this motion and authorizing this, staff are still actively looking for grants to hopefully make that price go down,” said Coun. Sam Raven.
Coun. Frank Wray added he hopes grant funding will be successful to minimize any impact on providing extra services at the new library.
“It’s not council’s job to go out and raise money but if people want services at the library that are beyond what are already offered, some money needs to be raised,” Wray said.
According to the staff report, the renovation project has a budget of $3 million, half being covered by Resource Benefits Alliance funding.
Coun. Genevieve Paterson voted in opposition, while other councillors passed the bylaw.
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