Performing arts centre input session reveals concern over cost, procedure

KAMLOOPS – When a $90-million project is announced for Kamloops you would expect hundreds of people to flood any public input session held to discuss the project, but this was not the case today in Kamloops.

When the report on the proposed performing arts centre was released last week more than 200 people attended the meeting, but on Saturday, fewer than 100 members of the public were on hand for the two-hour open house.

The report recommended the utilization of the the former Kamloops Daily News property, which the city purchased for $4.8-million last year. The plan calls for a 1,200-seat main theatre, a 350-seat studio theatre, rehearsal halls, administration and support space, and retail and artist space.

These details were discussed Saturday, April 18, at the public input session held at the Interior Savings Centre. Stations were set up to discuss the costs and the project's components.

For those in attendence the facility's price tag was top of mind. People asked about the parkade component of the project, wondering if it could built less expensively and how the operating costs compared to other venues.

Few people were against the proposed performing arts centre, but there was a call for more details and a worry about costs escalating even further.

People also wanted the idea of residential development and other user groups explored. The need to ensure it becomes more of a community and cultural facility, instead of just a performing arts centre, was also expressed.

Kamloops city councillors and staff at the session say they’ve had a variety of feedback since the report was released, but  added most people are in favour of the project, even if they are seeking more details before giving it their full backing.

Leading up to the meeting the feelings expressed on social media, as seen below, were a lot stronger and varied, ranging from complete support to complete disdain for the project.

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To contact a reporter for this story, email Jennifer Stahn at jstahn@infonews.ca or call 250-819-3723. To contact an editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.