Efforts are underway to establish a fundraising committee to support the proposed Grand Bend Community Centre.
Lambton Shores Mayor Doug Cook said discussions are being held with various groups to determine who will lead the fundraising effort.
During its most recent meeting, council unanimously approved several recommendations for the proposed project to move forward. One of which was to set a $5 million fundraising target, which would cover one third of the estimated construction cost.
CAO Steve McAuley said while staff recommended approaching the Rotary Club of Grand Bend to help oversee the fundraising campaign's rollout, they were open to speaking with others.
"I think the key thing though, is it needs to be community-led, supported by staff and council... not the other way around," said McAuley during the May 26 meeting.
Cook told Sarnia News Today he's looking forward to the project coming to fruition.
"My thoughts are, if we can get the champions from Grand Bend to start spearheading the fundraiser, it will be a success," Cook said.
Construction of the community centre is estimated to cost $15 million, down from the previous $21 million assessment.
Municipal staff were told last year to review the proposed design to reduce the estimated cost, and revisions were presented to council in early May.
The main design differences include: removing the net-zero component, reducing the second level's size by moving meeting rooms to the first level, and reconfiguring the common areas.
Staff also confirmed the Grand Bend Lions Park is the most suitable location for the proposed build.
Cook said staff have been directed to start detailed design work. The municipality will proceed to tender using funds from development charges to pay for the process.
Staff were also given the go-ahead to pursue grant opportunities.
"We have to talk to our MP and our MPP first, before we can go forward with that to get their support," Cook said. "We assume there may be something in the federal government right now, but we're just not sure."
The municipality is also waiting to see if a provincial grant, the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund, will be announced.
If so, staff said the municipality will apply for $2.5 million in funding.
