Kenilworth office renovation over budget

Wellington North staff moved back into the Kenilworth administration office last fall, weeks past the expected timeline.

The cost of that extension and other unforeseen circumstances was presented in a report to council on Feb. 12.

The approved budget for the project, which included accessibility upgrades, plumbing repairs and workspace updates, was $220,000.

However, due to “project expansion and unforeseen circumstances” the total cost was almost $285,000, states a report from chief building official Darren Jones.

The additional work included upgrading the IT system, renovation of the public works washroom, relocation of the public works lunch room, replacement of the rear entrance door, front reception desk and renovating the council chamber.

The HVAC system was also replaced after failure of one of the two units.

The relocation of staff to the Mount Forest Sports Complex totalled around $24,800.

Jones recommended funding the additional project costs from the administration facility reserve fund

Council approved the recommendation without discussion.