The Yorkton Brick Mill Heritage Society presented a $60,000 cheque to the City of Yorkton as part of its ongoing repayment for a city loan that helped jump-start construction on the society’s interpretive centre.
Larry Pearen, the chairman of the heritage society, said the $240,000 loan from the city was critical in allowing the project to proceed earlier than expected after government grants came with time-sensitive deadlines.
“That support from the city was a great help, and it’s important to us to repay it as soon as possible,” he said. “The $60,000 presented represents part of the repayment from four corporate sponsors — Yorkton Tribal Council, Harvest Meats, Legacy Co-op, and Grain Millers — who committed to $500,000 in payments over five years.
The cheque was presented at Monday’s city council meeting, where Pearen also gave an update on the construction of the interpretive centre.
The interpretive centre’s exterior was completed last fall, with interior work continuing. This September, the society plans to install vapour barriers, complete electrical and mechanical systems, and build on the rooftop units already in place.
The project has raised approximately $2.4 million to date, but Pearen said about $600,000 remains to fully complete construction and landscaping, with the Mill also raising $400,000 to date.
“We’re moving forward as far as we can with the funds we have, but costs keep rising, so we will continue fundraising to finish the project.”
The centre will include an atrium entrance with static and interactive educational displays, an event space able to accommodate 120 to 140 people, a rentable meeting room, and two offices for lease.
The society aims to hold a grand opening next spring once construction is finished.
Pearen also highlighted an upcoming event, the “Rally around the Mill,” a fun, scavenger hunt-style rally. The event features a pancake breakfast, barbecue supper, and afternoon entertainment.
Volunteers, including drivers, are being sought to help with the rally.
The Brick Mill is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The society’s final soup and bread sale of the season is set for Aug. 28.
Pearen expressed gratitude for community and business support throughout the project and in various fundraising events such as online auctions and heritage dinners.
“We appreciate all the individuals and businesses who have donated and continue to support us. Yorkton has been tremendous,” he said.
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