Bracebridge Council members express concern about spending over $56,275 on Taylor Road roundabout
Bracebridge Council members expressed concern about spending over $56,000 on the Taylor Road roundabout, in the August 14, 2024, meeting.
According to the staff report, Council allocated $85,000 in the 2024 Municipal Budget to redevelop the area as gateway for the Town and a means to slow traffic, and they received a proposal of $56,275 plus HST (or $63,590).
The project upgrade includes a new concrete inner curb, asphalt, grasses, plants, shrubs, a large granite stone with “Bracebridge Muskoka” on it, irrigation water service, lighting, and existing trees.
Councillor, Don Smith, who was away at this month’s meeting when the General Committee approved the upgrades, said he visited the site and reviewed the project and still finds it challenging that the Town is spending that much money “at this time.”
He explained that although he understood the concerns “it’s not a bad looking site.” He suggested the Town can “do something modest” instead.
He added, “It’s a matter of setting priorities and I think we have a better way of spending money.”
Mayor, Rick Maloney, indicated that one of the changes include adding another apron to improve site lines and planting, which he found was “unruly and created challenges with site lines.” He added that a Geotech membrane will also help limit maintenance, and the deeper apron can be a promotional tool.
CAO, Stephen Rettie, confirmed that the design supports low maintenance and clear site lines, and that there will be space for promotion, which is common with other municipalities “to promote the Town’s interests, priorities, and events.”
He added, “It’s been designed to create operational efficiencies for us.”
Councillor, Barb McMurray agreed with Smith and suggested that Council defer it and review it again later and “not cost so much money.”
She added, “It should not take another $56,000 to relook at a whole project.” She suggested they consider alternate options.
Deputy Mayor, Brenda Rhodes, suggested “doing it in pieces will cost more. It’s important that we do it and do it properly.”
Councillor, Barry Hammond, expressed concern about the cost of the apron size and vegetation, and asked if there was a cost breakdown available. He asked what the cost of the vegetation was. He said he’s received calls about it and it’s “important to know.”
Rettie said he didn’t have the cost breakdown, however, “Staff encourage the project be done all at once so there’s less disruption regarding traffic control impacts.”
Smith said, “We can treat any project in isolation and talk about its benefits to the community… We’re in a time in the municipality where we want to spend each dollar very wisely.”
He added, “I just think it’s an extra we can avoid.” He suggested the project can be done later, after Council has reviewed capital expenses. He said, “It’s not the right time.”
“I just think we should be saving this money today.”
McMurray expressed concern about planting vegetation in the fall. She said, “Plants do much better when planted in spring, not fall, so they can adjust.” She suggested revisiting the upgrade in the spring “and some questions we have now can be answered.”
Council voted in favour of continuing the upgrade which is scheduled to begin this fall.
