Â鶹AV council was advised this week that while the city’s buildings are in decent shape today, the next five to 10 years could bring growing pressure if investments in maintenance and upgrades aren’t ramped up.
A report on the city’s Strategic Facilities Master Plan (SFMP), presented to council at its June 23 meeting, highlighted how long-term renewal plans are essential, and how decisions made now will shape the condition of municipal buildings for years to come.
“If I was a councillor, I would look and say it is in a reasonable spot right now,” Derek Edstrom, director of partnerships and investments said. “But within five years, if we don’t do anything, it starts to trend. Within 10, it’s a different discussion.”
Staff used a tool called the Facility Condition Index (FCI) to help illustrate the current state of buildings—but stressed it should be viewed in context.
“FCI is a tool that can be misinterpreted quite easily,” Paul Reyes, architect, facilities planning, and design told council. “It’s not a de facto forecast. It’s not like the weather. These elements we have full control over.”
Council was told that over time, Â鶹AV has gradually fallen behind in some of its building renewals.
Approximately 75 per cent of existing facilities are 25 years or older (half service life), and 45 per cent are 50 year or older (nearing or past service life).
Several facilities have been identified for planning and assessment including Memorial and Rutland arenas, Fire Halls #1 (Enterprise Way) and #2 (Water Street), nine recreational buildings, and the Rutland Community Policing Office.
Although the FCI indicates the Â鶹AV Police Service Building is in good condition, it made the list because current staffing growth projections exceed available space by 2008.
Council endorsed the SFMP, which will guide how the city invests in its infrastructure and services over the next 15 years to meet both current and future community needs.
