It’s not exactly supersizing, but councillors here are increasing the space request for the Harriston Historical Society in a refurbished Harriston library.
Last month, the group came to council asking it to act on their behalf to obtain space for the group when Wellington County proceeds with its plans to refurbish the turn-of-the-century Carnegie library building.
On Sept. 1, the issue came up at council to support the society by asking the county for 600 to 1,000 square feet, and a separate entrance.
Mayor David Anderson said he saw members of the group within the council chambers that night. He alluded to the presentation made by Ron Leslie at the previous council meeting and talked to Leslie afterwards.
Anderson said there was a similar request made by the Clifford Historical Society about finding it a location.
“In our municipality, we have four communities. It’s hard to have four of everything.”
Anderson asked Leslie if the town was willing to make the commitment, if the space would be available for heritage items from across Minto.
He realized Palmerston has its railway museum, but if Harriston is the centre part of this, and there are people from across Minto wishing to display historic artifacts, there would be no problem with that.
As of that afternoon, Anderson said that Leslie assured him it would not be a problem.
“It gets to a point where you can’t have a large enough location in every part of the municipality. Something central would be admirable.”
In talking to county representatives, Anderson said this is a great opportunity.
He said there are plans for the renovation of the Harriston library in 2011 with extensive renovations, elevator, and an addition.
“The blueprints of that proposal have not been brought forth yet,” Anderson said.
He said if this request is endorsed by the Town of Minto, the cost is $10 per square foot, per year.
Anderson said there is a financial commitment, but he asked, “What’s a financial commitment when you are preserving your history and being able to showcase it?”
Deputy-mayor Judy Dirksen said the size of the council chamber is roughly 30- by 30-feet, roughly 900 square feet.
While it is possible to be pretty creative in arranging space, she wanted to make sure that the request is not for too small a space.
“Maybe in 10 years we’ll be well heeled enough that we can have a museum in every location, but right now I think this is good.”
Council David Turton agreed with Dirksen’s statements, as well as concerns whether the space is large enough.
“I think we should scratch off 600 and just put in 1,000 square feet,” Anderson said.
Council endorsed the motion as amended.
