Last night, Elliot Lake council unanimously endorsed using a newly acquired municipal property at 40 Hillside Drive North to be used as a hybrid museum and art centre.
Acting Mayor Andrew Wannan said the concept is a good one allowing for a space that can accommodate a variety of activities, while providing access to the community’s heritage and ensuring the city’s collections are protected for future generations.
The city acquired the property this past September to replace the facilities, which were destroyed when the roof of the former Lester B. Pearson Centre collapsed in February 2019 and the building was demolished.
Staff recommended the main floor of the building be made available to the public and to retrofit the entrance as a welcome centre, with the assembly area as a hybrid museum and rentable performing arts space.
Staff will now apply for grants to complete the final designs and funding for renovation.
No timeline was made available as to when it would open its doors to the public.
