The Vernon Community Music School is trying to tune into taxpayers’ support.
The non-profit organization has suggested the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee could support fundraising for a new building foundation, although a specific dollar amount has not been requested.
“The budget for this year is already approved so it’s late in the process,” said Doug Dirk, a GVAC director.
A letter of support from the politicians is also being sought to leverage grant applications.
“A letter of support is the easy one, it’s the money that’s difficult,” said Mike Macnabb, GVAC chairperson.
The school is attempting to raise $300,000 to replace the foundation on the 1908 East Hill structure, and $125,000 has been collected to date.
“Students and faculty have done a lot of fundraising,” said Bridgitt Johnson, music school director.
The concern, though, is the work could cost more than anticipated — some estimates indicate it could be $340,000.
The goal is for construction to begin in the summer of 2013, with new foundation completed by that September.
The music school has 700 students enrolled under the guidance of 23 teachers.
“We go from kindergarten to producing music teachers,” said Gerry Martselos, acting president.
GVAC staff will review the funding request further and it will be considered by the board at its April 4 meeting.
