Maximilian's in Perth (MBC News)
Joan Stephenson Bowes, co-owner of the Maximilian’s Restaurant building appeared as a delegation to Perth council’s committee meeting to request changes to the Town’s heritage restoration grant system.
Her 1850s building received an order last year to make changes to comply with fire regulations regarding the proximity of windows and doors to fire escapes. Bowes said they spent $15K last year and expect to spend $24K this year to make the changes.
They received grants from the Town’s community improvement and heritage restoration programs to help, but found out this year, they are locked out of further applications for five years from the first grant date. Bowes noted these changes are not cosmetic.
Councillor Gary Waterfield stated that the Perth needed to come to the assistance of heritage property owners.
The committee voted to direct staff to review existing grant programs, consider including funding for fire safety upgrade and report back.
Story by Brian Turner
