Here are answers to some more of the questions that have been received. Although some of questions are about events that took place months ago, they do give context as to how the project moved forward.
These Q & A’s have been provided to help the membership fully understand the depth of the Project that TICA has taken on. It is not a small, humble building. It has many requirements that have needed to be met, and that are continuing to be met. Many upgrades & repairs to Forbes Hall had been “put off” for several years before the Project started, knowing that the costs would be wasted once the rebuild started. Every step of the way, the consequences of the building’s design, the timing of the project, and the included details, have been weighed to ensure there will be good value for years to come.
Q: Was there recourse to challenge the Public Assembly designation under the Building Code of Forbes Hall?
A: No, however, the Committee did discuss the onerous nature of the designation with the Building Inspector. It was made clear to the Committee that the Building Code requirements cannot be changed, nor can the designation of Forbes Hall be changed.
Building Code: Part 3 Buildings (Complex) - Public Assembly
Size:
• All buildings over three storeys in height or over 600 square metres in footprint.
• Some buildings three storeys or less in height or under 600 square meters in area that are of a specific use.
Description:
• Buildings intended for public gatherings, residential care, detention or high-hazard industrial activities.
• Some larger buildings intended for residential, commercial or medium-to-low hazard industrial activities.
Examples:
• Shopping malls, Office buildings, Condos, Apartment buildings, Hospitals, Care facilities, Daycares, Schools, Churches, Theatres, Restaurants.
Q: How did the Directors and Expansion Committee members determine that J. Lealand Contracting Ltd. was capable of executing the Project as prime contractor?
A: As part of the competitive bid process, and prior to entering into a contract with J. Lealand Contracting Ltd. the Committee sought and received references in respect of the Company. In addition, Court Registry and Corporate Registry searches were conducted to ensure that the Company was both in good standing, and not subject to legal actions.
Q: Was there any bias in favour/against Thetis Island builders in the Tender documents?
A: No. The Committee relied on TICA’s Architect, Angela Quek, to organize and supervise the competitive tendering process. Angela Quek, using standard construction industry templates, prepared the tender documents.
Q: Have the Directors/Committee finalized costs and schedules, as well as reviewed cost saving opportunities in order to complete the Project?
A: Yes. Schedules are regularly reviewed with the Contractor. Cost savings opportunities are being investigated daily. The Committee has taken an active role in suggesting and implementing numerous cost saving measures.
Q: When was it decided that Forbes Hall needed to be capable of being used as an Emergency Shelter?
A: Forbes Hall was designated as an Emergency Support Services (ESS) Reception Centre several years ago. However, during the December 2018 power outage, the need for such a Centre was reinforced.
Forbes Hall as an Emergency Shelter; following the December 20 2018 storm, it became apparent through two different emergency planning and information meetings, that the community expected and wanted Forbes Hall to be used for an Emergency Shelter. This includes a warm building with food service, with some overnight sheltering. Having the hall work as a shelter has not impacted the cost of the building. Propane storage for the emergency generator will need to be larger, and storage shelving will be needed for certain items (non-perishables, blankets, etc.).
Q: What additional costs are incurred as a result of providing ESS designation?
A: Very little, all that is needed is secure cabinetry to house documents, and storage space for provided emergency supplies. ESS does not provide shelter.
Click here for Construction Photos.
Sunday, December 8, 2019 at 7:46AM 
