Steinbach City Councillor Earl Funk got to be Mayor for the morning. Funk sat in the Mayor's chair Friday for the monthly open door session.

He says one of the hot topics was the plan unveiled this week for a $24 million performing arts centre in Steinbach. Funk says the common concern he has been hearing since plans went public on Wednesday, is that this project is too costly. Funk notes if this centre is built and suddenly there are operating losses, it could result in a tax increase.

"For folks on a fixed income that would be extremely challenging," says Funk.

And not only that, but Funk says an average Steinbach family earns between $55,000 and $60,000 per year, meaning there are limited funds per family.

"When we look at the big picture, we have to be careful with the funds that we have," adds Funk.

He says the other common concern he has been hearing has to do with priorities.

"Some are concerned, are we building the right thing first," says Funk.

Meanwhile, Funk also sat down Friday morning with a member of the local Citizens On Patrol Program (COPP).

"I just want to really thank the entire group, all the members for what they do for our city and how they tirelessly provide security for us, they work very closely with the RCMP," he says.

Funk says earlier this week when he stopped by his business late at night, there were COPP volunteers patrolling the area. He notes that provided a level of comfort to know that his store was being looked after while he was at home resting.

He adds COPP is always looking for new recruits. Further to that he says this time of year they are stressing the importance of locking our doors.

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Plans Unveiled For $24 Million Performing Arts Centre