OUTLOOK - Local motorists driving in Outlook may have noticed recently that improvements are being made to the legendary Bounty Theatre that sits beside the Outlook & District Heritage Museum.
The exterior of the iconic hall has undergone an extensive makeover, and attention is now being directed to the interior.
In a recent article published in the August 18 edition of The Outlook, this reporter highlighted priorities in the building that need to be addressed, as well as the future hopes and ideas for the hall should it become a performance venue in the town of Outlook. As well, the tasks that have been undertaken already were noted, such as the updated roofing, new windows, concrete laid along the walking ramp pathway, and a new splash of exterior yellow paint.
Now, in part two of our look at the Bounty Theatre, we look at the dollar figures related to the extensive project.
Kevin Trew, in addition to being the administrator for the Town of Outlook, also serves as chair of the Outlook & District Heritage Museum. He tells The Outlook that the board recently passed a renovations budget for the hall that was described as "aggressive yet attainable".
Mapped out in phases, the budgetary cycle is described as follows in an email to this reporter from Trew:
Phase 1 Completion of Hall to Building Code, Improved Esthetics and Access
"Total Budget for 2022 is $29,950 with $6,560 remaining to complete Phase 1 - we are confident that we will be able to complete this in the next 6 weeks - monetary donations and fundraising efforts have helped us to see this to fruition, however we continue to accept tax deductible donations to ensure that we have funds to complete this phase and continue operations at both buildings."
Phase 2 (Needed to Operate an Events Centre) Completion of Electrical
"This also includes the completion of plumbing and carpentry with upgraded doors, painting of interior and addition of a bathroom, kitchenette and mop sink closet in the existing floor plan - Total Budget $132,550. We are looking for support from the community and have applied for a few different grants to do this. As we receive funds or commitment to these funds, we will contact contractors to complete the work. We have received quotes from local contractors for each of these tasks under this Phase of the project, we are hoping to get this started in 2022 for completion early in 2023 but it is very dependent upon cash injection from the community. We are intentionally seeking donations from local people and businesses as it is very important to retain that local feel to the building to maintain the integrity as a grassroots project. Having said that, for donations of $1000 or more, there will be permanent recognition placed in the hall."
Phase 3 (Dare to Dream) Addition of Kitchen and Bathroom
"This includes creating an outdoor venue in between Bounty Hall and the Museum with outside access to the bathrooms and kitchen as well as an outdoor stage and electrical - Total Budget Estimates are at $270,000. This is not a priority and would require a substantial injection of cash as a donation or grant. This phase is not anticipated to take place this year. For significant donation or commitment of funds, the board will entertain naming rights to the addition at Bounty Hall."
