The Qualicum Beach Museum could get a $15,000 present from taxpayers when it celebrates its 30th anniversary next year.
Town council passed a motion Monday night to match whatever amount the Qualicum Beach Historical and Museum Society raises in its fundraising efforts in 2014, up to $15,000.
Council met with the society about a month ago and heard about plans for marketing, upgrades and anniversary celebrations. The $15,000 in matching funds for 2014 would be on top of what the society already gets every year from the town, $35,000.
“I think they (the society) are going about it in the right way and I think it’s the right thing to do at this point,” said Coun. Dave Willie.
When financial administrator John Marsh put the recommendation forward, he said the society has “an ambitious schedule” for improvements and other projects at the museum. He also said a plan needs to be worked out on how and when the town would disperse the additional funds, perhaps in pieces as the society adds to its coffers through fundraising.
“There would have to be some aspect of trust involved (in the disbursal of funds),” said Marsh.
Coun. Bill Luchtmeijer said he liked the matching-funds plan because it shows the society is prepared to “not just expect money, but put some effort into fundraising themselves.”
