FAQ
Is the roof dangerous?
An engineering firm was commissioned in 2023 to visually inspect the roof and its structure. The report found that, while the structure was currently in good shape, failure to address persistent leaks could cause future concern. The CBHC has invested thousands into emergency repairs, but these have had little effect.
Can't the CBHC just patch the roof?
No. The most pervasive leaks have been around for over a decade. The CBHC has invested in repairs, and while some have helped, the deteriorated state of the current roofing material is such that patches are no longer effective. Just the act of roofers accessing the roof to patch often causes more damage. The opinion of professional roofers and engineers, following inspection and assessment, is that the roof is long past its expiry date. Without replacement, the underlying building structure is now at risk.
Does the CBHC own the building?
No, the CBHC is a tenant of the building which is owned by a subsidiary of Purvis Marine. The Purvis Family has agreed to continue the CBHC’s long-term lease up until potentially 2041.
If the CBHC does not own the building, why are you responsible for paying for a new roof and these significant retrofits to the building?
The current lease agreement is such that the CBHC contributes a symbolic rent and, instead, covers the costs of maintaining the building area which it occupies (approximately 65,000 sq.ft). The landlord has agreed to extend the current lease until 2036, with a potential 5-year extension to 2041, with the understanding that the CBHC substantially finances the Roof and Retrofit Project under the maintenance terms of the current lease.
What are the CBHC's annual building costs?
Between maintenance, insurance, taxes and utilities, the CBHC spends $350,000 annually on the facility. Almost $200,000 of that amount is for gas and electricity. This project will not only improve the CBHC’s current space, but should reduce the CBHC’s ongoing annual maintenance costs and contribute to the future sustainability of the CBHC.
Wouldn't it just be easier to build a new building?
The current heritage building is a lot to maintain but vital to the story we tell. Additionally, planning for a new building requires significant time (5-10 years), which the current roof situation does not allow. To stay open and viable, to continue to be a pillar in the community, to remain a tourism anchor, the CBHC needs to fix the immediate problems now. As part of our 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, the CBHC will conduct a feasibility study to guide the long-term future of the CBHC.