December 15, 2008
More money for Olympic Village
City Hall looking to spend $7M
By BOB MACKIN, 24 HOURS

New Vancouver city council, same story.

City hall staff reports are seeking approval Tuesday from the Vision Vancouver-dominated council to spend more than $7 million on the Southeast False Creek development.

A report by project manager Jody Andrews says the $7.7 million approved by the previous NPA-majority council has been allocated. Another $3 million is needed "to allow the development of public spaces and infrastructure to continue." The contingency would pay for fencing, a site office, security and design and construction change orders.

Staff also recommend hiring Holland Landscapers for a $4.25 million plaza construction project at the Olympic Village. Andrews' report said city hall is spending $110 million on work completed or underway, including utilities and servicing, gardens, park and road construction.

Auditor KPMG was asked Friday to review the Olympic Village project, the same day city council met secretly to fire city manager Judy Rogers and replace her with Dr. Penny Ballem.

The previous council approved $8.5 million on various Olympic-related projects on Oct. 28, the last regular meeting before the Nov. 15 civic election.

CANOE.CA