Connecting city water and sewer services to a new Hindu temple under construction in the city's north end will add more than $687,000 to next year's capital budget; money the city says it will recoup from the owners.
The Radha Krishna Mandir is building its new facility on a triangular piece of land at the intersection of Boxwood Drive, Cherry Blossom and Royal Oak roads, but because of the complexity of the connection, an external contractor has to be hired to do the work.
Staff is asking council to approve the addition of the capital project ahead of the 2025 budget process so that in-ground work can get underway.
Currently based in Blair on Old Mill Road, the Radha Krishna Mandir began construction on its new 21,000 square foot facility in 2021.
The completed building will have a banquet-style facility and a prayer hall with capacity for 450. It will feature a fully equipped commercial kitchen and parking for 112 vehicles.
Additionally, the building will include a library, a puja store, wellness rooms, and other facilities.
The city is responsible for coordinating the design, approval and service installation within its right-of-way, with full cost recovery from the property owner.
Staff say, given the scale of site servicing work and the associated estimated budget, it can't be completed through an operating account and must be completed as a capital project in accordance with the city’s budget control by-law.
Once approved, the city will set up a financial agreement with the owner outlining the obligations of both parties around design, procurement, and construction, confirming all costs are the responsibility of the owner.
The property owner will be asked to provide a deposit or letter of credit, to the satisfaction of the city's chief financial officer, in the full amount of the estimated budget prior to the city proceeding with the project.
Staff say there will be no impact to the city's budget.
