Urgent: $1M Repairs for St. Andrew’s Church Funded by Insurance

UPDATE: Major repairs and improvements for St. Andrew’s on the Square, the historic church in Kamloops, are set to exceed $1 million, with insurance covering the bulk of the costs. In a report prepared for the city council meeting on Tuesday, officials revealed that $725,000 will be allocated for construction, architectural services, and HVAC work.

The council is expected to authorize an additional $302,000 from city reserves for crucial improvements, covering cost increases and replacing contents lost in the fire that occurred on May 2, 2024. “The restoration plan focuses on accessibility, functionality, technology, and preserving the church’s heritage,” the report stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining community utility.

The fire, which caused significant damage, was quickly extinguished by firefighters, preserving parts of the building and some of its contents. Currently, the church remains closed during remediation efforts. On-site construction is slated to commence on August 25, 2024, with an ambitious completion goal set for January 2026.

The city has engaged Reimagine Architects to oversee the restoration design, ensuring compliance with current building codes. The insurance process continues as a contractor for the rebuild has been appointed. “The insurance coverage will restore the building to its pre-fire condition, along with some minor upgrades,” the report confirmed.

Included in the insurance coverage are essential repairs: general demolition, roof replacement, siding, HVAC components, electrical systems, doors, windows, and audio/visual wiring. The council will also consider a proposal for $52,000 to replace contents not covered by insurance, including tables, chairs, audio equipment, and appliances.

If approved, $218,000 will fund enhancements, such as improvements to the washroom layout and kitchen, security upgrades, and accessibility features. The financial plan also allocates $32,000 to address cost increases that emerged after the insurance approval.

The council will discuss these critical funding proposals and hear from city staff about the restoration of St. Andrew’s on the Square during the meeting on Tuesday. This is a pivotal moment for the community, as the church symbolizes both historical significance and a place for gathering. The approval of these plans is crucial to restore this landmark for future generations.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.