Chilliwack Search and Rescue is anticipating completion of their new building project this summer - despite a funding shortfall.
A presentation on June 18 at city hall by search and rescue member Frank Van Nynatten included a construction update, along with a budget increase they're now facing.
While early estimates put the cost at $3.2 million for project, the budget has gone up to $3.7 million. It's more than anticipated but still within the range of affordability, the SAR member said.
"We are continuing to push hard to fundraise as we move toward completion," he said.
Additional ground densification was required to ensure it was a "post disaster building" so that's an extra $400,000. They have financing set in place, however as an organization with "no steady funding source," the volunteer-led non-profit prefers not to carry a mortgage on the building.
The team's fundraising efforts have netted them $3.05 million in total. That's with $1 million from City of Chilliwack, and another $1 million the team raised itself over the years, and $250,000 from a provincial gaming grant, but so far they're looking at a a shortfall of roughly $750,000 to overcome as the goal is to finish this building in the next six months.
They were lifting concrete panels into place this week.
"Right now the majority of the steel is erected, I understand most of the welding is done," said Van Nynatten.
He thanked the mayor and council for their ongoing support of SAR, with equipment and the new building.
