Smiths Falls council is asking public works staff to find ways to reduce the cost of a proposed new operations centre at 11 Air Care Drive.
Staff recommended entering a contract agreement with Bircon Canada for $9.378 million, with the full cost approximately $10.46 million when factoring in additional fees for the design, furnishings and contingency.
The town would finance about $9.17 million through debt, with about $1.29 million coming from an insurance settlement following a 2025 fire at the existing garage.
The planned Smiths Falls building is about 18,610 square feet and includes six vehicle bays, office space, storage as well as a 5,082-square-foot cold storage facility.
Councillor Chris McGuire questioned the need for 11 individual offices, two lunchrooms, and a workplace area for a staff position they do not have filled.
Councillors pointed to Montague Township’s 22,285-square-foot public works facility, which has eight bays and a larger footprint, while costing about $7.7 million.
Public Works and Utilities Director Paul McMunn ensured council that the design has taken cost-savings in mind already.
Councillor Jay Brennan pointed out Montague did secure a price for their new public works garage, completed last year, in 2024, noting, “it’s a different world now,” with inflation and tariffs playing a factor in the costs towards the Smiths Falls build.
Staff have been asked to return next week with potential savings before council decides whether to proceed with the project.
Story by Grant Deme
