The septic system at the new Royal Distributing Performance and Activity Centre at Marden Park will cost $400,692.
The winning tender was from Pioneer Septic Solutions Inc., with the two others coming in at $423,060 and $479,465.
Councillor Doug Breen said he was “a bit shocked” at the price tag, considering there isn’t much in terms of wastewater from the facility, other than a few washrooms.
Parks and Recreation Manager Robin Milne said the cost is partially related to the provincially significant wetland in the area as well as strict Ministry of the Environment guidelines.
Milne also explained to council the results of the request for quotes for the building’s water system. Only one bid was received for that project, from Dufferin Water Company Ltd. for $64,750 plus tax.
“To me, it was extremely disappointing,” Milne said of the lack of response, considering eight tender packages were picked up.
Council unanimously approved the water and septic system quotes. Councillor Roger Knapp was absent.
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The potential budget overrun for the Royal Distributing Performance and Activity Centre is currently estimated at $183,033, Milne told council last week.
He explained the extra costs are a result of:
– dewatering on the site;
– increased septic system requirements;
– solid conditions under the building footprint;
– addition of a viewing mezzanine;
– external enclosure of the fire suppression system; and
– upgrades to the gas and hydro services.
Mayor Chris White said the cost overrun is a just a small percentage of the overall cost and staff has done a good job to keep costs low.
Milne also noted the active communities campaign has raised $361,950 towards the township’s $2.07-million portion for the $6.2-million phase one development of the park.
Councillors offered their congratulations to campaign members.
The township is covering its portion through a debenture, which will be paid off at a rate of about $155,000 annually.
