IT'S been encouraging to hear the feedback from the public - both positive and negative -regarding Council's proposal to refurbish its Moss Vale Civic Centre.
After all, a proposal such as this will undoubtedly benefit all residents as Council will be better able to serve the needs of our community.
It's important to note that the proposal is to refurbish an existing building, not build a new one, which in parts is more than 40 years old.
The scope of the work proposed involves bringing the building up to modern building codes and addressing specific deficiencies in relation to accessibility and mobility, environmental, customer and Workplace Health and Safety standards.
Specific issues identified include addressing structural faults to the roof and brickwork, upgrading the building's security system, repairing windows and fixtures, rectifying the ageing air-conditioning, installation of an accessible lift and fire protection systems and general replacement of carpets and painting.
Other issues to be looked at include allowing provision for rain water harvesting, installation of solar electricity panels and natural lighting ducts.
This is being proposed to increase the building's environmental efficiency and reduce water and electricity consumption.
It is also proposed to relocate the Customer Service Centre to the front of the building to better serve customers and allow visitors more practical access upon arrival to the centre.
Other considerations may include various options in relation to the current library facilities that could better serve the residents of Moss Vale.
These proposed upgrades do not represent a 'Taj Mahal' style- project, rather, it is estimated the loan repayment of about $5 million would be equivalent to the money that is now spent annually on essential maintenance and replacement.
The decision to refurbish the Elizabeth Street Civic Centre has not been taken lightly.
The upgrades have been proposed to meet the growing needs of our Shire.
In fact Councillors ultimately agreed that the repairs should only be undertaken in the interests of our customers and employees.
The reality is like all buildings, if left to deteriorate, the cost will rise and the safety of our staff and customers could be comprised.
It is also my strong conviction to award contracts for works to local contractors, which is permissible under the Local Government Act 1993.
I encourage local building contractors to "sharpen their pencils" and take-up contracts for the proposed alterations to the "worn-out" Civic Centre.
It is imperative that the council supports local contractors in these "tough" times.
In the meantime, as with all the council's public projects, I look forward to hearing more of what the shire's residents think of the council's latest project.
Email a friend