We are pleased to announce that the funding drive is over. Graham Herbert's thermometer at the Co-op corner has burst over with excitement.
The New Clinic Project had a construction budget of $559,000, including contingencies. When the project was started in 2007, it was estimated that the island would raise 70% of the cost and governments and outside agencies would cover 30% of the cost. As of December 2009, we had met our goal for our contribution, at 71% of the budget. But by this time it became clear that there was to be no assistance from any outside source. We were counting on the late Stan Hagen to be our champion in government, but he left us. The Lottery Commission turned us down on the specious grounds that we had already started the project, which was not true. Foundations turned us down because this is the business of government. Governments turned us down because they can. The province even charged us stumpage on the trees we cut down to clear the lot.
So we had to do it ourselves. As of 15 April 2011, we project that we will be come out just about even. This includes a few pledges which are still outstanding. If there is indeed a surplus, we will buy medical equipment for the clinic.
The good side to this is that we are beholden to no one.
A more detailed report will be prepared when the books are closed, hopefully by our official opening in May. A list of acknowledgements will also be prepared by that time.