A budget amendment is being sought to demolish a home on city property for future road improvements.
On the agenda for the Tuesday, Nov. 12 Salmon Arm council meeting is a staff request to reallocate $42,000 in the city's budget for the demolition of a house at 781 20th Street NE. The city acquired this .5 acre property for future road connectivity and improvement, which requires demolition of the existing 2,462 square-foot residence.
The property was one of four considered by the city in plans for a future intersection near the uptown Tim Hortons. At an August 2022 meeting, council approved borrowing for the purchase of 881 30th St. NE. The negotiated price was $530,000 for the lot 1,220 square-metre lot.
According to BC Assessment, the home at 781 was built in 1968 – a period when hazardous materials were used in construction. This February, staff had a pre-demolition hazardous materials survey completed on the structure, and in September a request for quotes was issued for the demolition of the house, its foundation and associated structures. Two quotes were received, with both coming in over the approved $60,000 budget.
"It is understood that the hazardous material abatement costs were significantly higher than first anticipated," explained staff, adding the budget amendment includes funding for water and sewer terminations.
Staff proposes reallocating $12,000 from the City Entrance Signs project and $30,000 from 881 30th Street NE – funds no longer required for either project.
"If the building is not demolished additional funds will be required to continue weekly inspections and cover the costs of hydro and other incidentals," noted staff.
The public session of Tuesday's council meeting begins at 2:30 p.m. in council chambers.
