The Rural Municipality of Ritchot is set to break ground on the renovation and expansion of its municipal office.

According to the municipality, the existing space has been bursting at the seams for a number of years now. 

The new space, which will be more than double the size, will include a 4,200-square-foot addition and a complete renovation of the existing 3,750 square feet. 

There are 11 employees working out of the existing building and once complete, it will be able to accommodate 16 to 20 staff members. The municipality says this should ensure enough space for another 20 to 30 years of growth. It will also include a new board room and council chambers.

"The RM is incredibly excited over this long overdue and much-needed overhaul of the municipal office," says Mayor Chris Ewen. "We will now have dedicated space for all of our employees plus the old board room and council chambers will be repurposed for business incubation and smaller events to support the needs of the community."

Work on the project began in 2020 and was presented as part of the RM of Ritchot's 2022 Financial Plan. The renovation and expansion are expected to cost $2.6 Million and are being funded by the RM's reserve fund, meaning no increase to taxes or borrowing will be required. 

Pretium Projects Ltd will begin construction at the end of May with work expected to be completed by February/March of 2024. Temporary construction fences will be put up around the site to ensure the safety of all residents. The municipal office is expected to remain open throughout the renovation to ensure as little disruption to residents as possible.

In conjunction with the office expansion, the area between the RM office and the St. Adolphe Daycare will be developed into an outdoor community gathering space and seasonal market area including green space, a stage and a multi-purpose activity area for things like pickleball and basketball.

Site drawing for expanded RM office area in Ritchot (RM of Ritchot).RM office and area rendering (credit: RM of Ritchot)