From an original estimate of about $5.56-million for the 30 unit seniors' complex on Lawrence Ave., Orangeville, the projected cost to the county has risen by $1.9-million - to almost $7.5-million.

But Chief Building Official Mike Giles, whose report will be considered by county council tonight, appears optimist that the new estimate might be a bit of an exaggeration.

If not, he says the county would be looking at borrowing the added funds on a 20-year debenture requiring a payback of about $145,000 annually.

"Based on a 20 year loan, semi-annual payments at 4.5%, the additional cost to the County would be approximately $145,000 annually which would equate to a revised debenture payment of $359,000 but could change based on the going interest rate," he says in his report.

Mr. Giles's report has not received the customary committee review, but is going directly to the council, which would be expected to bite the bullet as the centre is partially funded by federal/provincial grants.

The 33,800 square foot complex (up from 26,290) would have 20 one-bedroom units and 10 with two bedrooms.

Twelve of the units would be under the affordable housing category, at 20 per cent below the Orangeville market. The rest would be a mix between rent geared to income and market values, according to earlier reports.

It wasn't immediately determined how much of the shortfall would be recovered through increased rentals, if any. Mr. Giles says some adjustments might be made to reduce costs, but he also points out that the requirements of design make such a complex more expensive per square footage than other types of structures - and the county has opted to incorporate "green energy," an added cost that's recoverable over a decade or so and would reduce operating costs after that.

"The additional cost of these green initiatives is approximately $350,000 over conventional methods. There are some grants available to offset these costs which we are currently pursuing. Some of the initiatives being utilized may be eligible for gas tax funding.

"The units were not designed as standard units but as modified units to facilitate the increased needs of seniors. Although not considered fully accessible units, provisions have been made to the structure so that they can be easily converted if required in the future. Some of the modifications made include, lower counter tops, wider than normal doors, washrooms that will make possible easier movement and motion sensors on the lights."

As well, he says, the halls and elevators are larger than usual to accommodate scooters and such. There's a common room for the pleasure of residents, but Mr. Giles says it could be rented out as a source of added revenue from time to time.

Some of the "soft costs" such as about $300,000 had been omitted from original estimates. As well, additional furniture is evidently required, plus the cost increase also covers the added cost of an additional 7,000 square feet - a size increase to cover the added space needed.

Mr. Giles was not reached for comment, and committee members contacted had yet to read the report.