SASKATOON – The Children’s Discovery Museum made its case to city council on Monday evening to move to the Mendel Art Gallery.
A business plan was presented to councillors outlining the museum’s details to move and expand into the Mendel once it becomes vacant in 2015 when the art gallery moves to the new Remai Art Gallery of Saskatchewan.
Under the proposal, 50 per cent of the costs would be covered by admission fees, with another 25 per cent coming from public funding and the remainder through private donations.
This modelling is consistent with other children’s museums around the world according to one of the report’s authors.
“We looked at data from 250 children’s museums in the world, including several in Canada, as well as cultural and educational organizations in the province,” said Craig Gates from MNP LLP.
“The business plan is based on best practices and outcomes at these facilities.”
The city is hesitant, fearing it could be left at risk of picking up the tab if public or private funding doesn’t come through.
The alternative, said museum President Erica Bird, is higher admission fees.
Council accepted the business plan as information and administration will report back to council on how to proceed.
“We look forward to continuing to work with city councillors and administration to bring a vibrant children’s museum to Saskatoon,” said Bird.
Comments