New Nanaimo Reservoir Building Observations

Did we really need such a fancy shmancy building?

While attending the official start up of the electric generators a the new #1 Nanaimo reservoir I couldn't help but make a few observations of how it once again seems very easy to spend taxpayers dollars.

The first photo just raises the question of why that piece of concrete couldn't have been supplied by one of our local companies? Just a thought.

The middle and bottom picture are what had me wondering whether or not a completely utilitarian building, which almost never even has people inside it, had to sport what appears some pretty high end architectural details.

Other than giving an architect something to do, what is the purpose of the fancy, shmancy roof line which appears to be clad with stainless steel? And what is with all the fancy brickwork, good old cinderblock is likely good enough for the purpose.

But the highlight of the whole building is all the fancy laminated show wood that is used for roof joists and ceiling finishing. Really??? Remember, this is a building I am told does not regularly have anyone in it at all. The whole operation is completely automated and does not require full time attendance at.

I am sure if the folk at city hall were spending their own money they could have found a far more practical way of constructing this building at a considerable saving. But then again, it is only tax dollars!