The Kaatza Historical Society has asked for permission from the Town of Lake Cowichan for an addition to the Historic Bell Tower close to the Kaatza Station Museum.
The addition would be of 750 square feet according to Pat Foster from the society, who was at the town’s Sustainable Planning and Development Committee meeting held last Tuesday.
“There is green space to the west side of the Bell Tower School,” said Foster at the meeting. “It wouldn’t interfere with any walking paths.”
Foster and the society believe they are just in need of more space in general for both workers, researchers and visitors.
“A lot of researchers come into our archives room. For example, Rolli Gunderson has to perch herself on a pulled out drawer of a filing cabinet to do her work as the rest of our volunteers are using the desks.”
Foster confirmed the addition to the Bell Tower would likely be on a cement foundation.
“We want to make it fit the look of the building. Our volunteers are prepared to apply the outside touches and dry wall. It’s very crowded in there right now.”
Foster also stated that councillors Jayne Ingram and Frank Hornbrook have already seen the space where the society wishes to add on and she has also been in contact with Gerald Thom from the Cowichan Lake River Stewardship Society.
“Gerald Thom doesn’t think it will be a problem to the water. We’ve had donations already and the estimated cost is $50,000. We also have a bookkeeper who will look into grants.”
Council will now discuss the prospect of an addition.
“It sounds ambitious and very cool,” said Coun. Bob Day at the meeting.
