Getting a planned amphitheatre built in Leamington is going to cost more than expected.
The original budget of $400,000 has jumped to $1.2-million, as deeper consultation showed the scope of the project needed to be expanded from the initial plan.
Mayor John Paterson says the price increase isn't scaring anyone off.
"Council [is] really, really committed to this," says Paterson. "None of them flinched at the cost; they all realize that this is a one shot deal, you either do it right the first time or it's just a waste of money."
Paterson is confident property taxes in Leamington won't be taking a direct hit because of the increase.
"We know we have to pay for it and if we have to pay for it up front and then go back and gather the funds the other way then that's what we'll do," says Paterson, stressing the town is chasing a number of other sources of funding for the project other than property taxes.
Paterson says the town is about two-thirds of the way toward reaching the $1.2-million figure.
Administration has been directed to keep the project moving forward which could see the amphitheatre built by June — in time for summer event season.
Paterson feels there's broad support for the project in the town.
"Everything that we have done, so far, and shared with the public whether it's conceptual drawings and all that other kind of stuff — it has been very positive support," says Paterson. "Very, very, very few naysayers, if any, at all."
The initial plan would have seen a covering built over a concrete pad with seats carved into a nearby hill. However, consultations revealed if the town wanted a multi-use arts amphitheatre it would need to spend a lot more to create a larger, raised stage, better power capacity as well as greater accessibility and seating considerations.
Paterson says the town has already spoken with the Windsor Symphony Orchestra about taking the stage at the soon-to-be-built amphitheatre and expects other acts would like to take the stage as well including performers from the Kingsville Folk Festival.
