Serious concerns regarding the proposed new admin building for Tiny

A comparison of the original floor map of the proposed new administrative building as presented in the original 2017 plan with the updated plan of 2024 raises several questions regarding the significant departure from the original building plan proposed by the building committee. The initial plan envisioned a modest 21,000 square foot structure (see schematics below) on the existing site with a budget ranging from $5.5 million to $8.4 million in 2024 dollars. By comparison, the current proposal entails a much grander curved glass edifice with a staggering budget of $27 million.

Of perhaps even greater concern is the absence of a specified budget in the request for proposal (RFP), which could potentially incentivize architects to prioritize extravagant designs over practicality. This revelation, coupled with the absence of budgetary discussions in 11 prior meetings have raised apprehensions about the financial implications for taxpayers due to unchecked scope expansion. The potential for this project to incur explosive costs well above the $27 million sticker price seems almost built into the proposal.

Additionally, queries have been raised regarding the long-term financial projections for the project. Despite the 2024 Budget emphasizing "long term fiscal responsibility" as a core objective, it was revealed that there are no projections extending even five years into the future. This lack of foresight is particularly concerning given the significant financial commitments anticipated, including quintuple the original amortization costs for the new building, underfunding of assets by $4.4 million annually according to the Asset Management Plan report, and impending sewage disposal expenses estimated at $1 to $2 million. Mayor Evans pledged to provide accurate cost projections to address these concerns. However, there remains apprehension among taxpayers that the current trajectory may result in substantial tax increases, potentially reaching 50% over the coming years. Urgent fiscal analysis is deemed imperative to prevent a scenario where residents face unsustainable tax burdens.

The tax future tax increases will be devastating to young people starting out, pensioners on fixed incomes, and people struggling to afford to keep the cottage in their family.

Serious and sober fiscal analysis is required right now before we get trapped. This is a call for a pragmatic and financially prudent approach that prioritizes efficiency, savings, and responsible spending. This emphasizes that while the focus is currently on the building project, broader fiscal considerations must be taken into account to ensure affordability for all residents, irrespective of income. The elected officials are hereby urged to exercise judicious decision-making in the best interest of the community.