An attempt by a group of councillors to reserve some space there for community organisations failed last night.
The Dunedin City Council voted 7-5 against revoking the controversial call it made in November to lease the floor at commercial rates.
The two-storey building is under construction in King Edward St and community organisations were consulted about how the top floor might be used.
They were then surprised when councillors endorsed a plan for commercial leasing across the floor. Cr Carmen Houlahan, who voted for the plan, then led the charge to reverse the council’s decision.
It had been strongly implied at least some of the top floor would be community space, she said.
Cr David Benson-Pope said the facility had been consistently referred to as the South Dunedin library and community hub, including by the council itself.
However, Cr Bill Acklin said the council needed to offset the "huge" cost of the facility.
Cr Kevin Gilbert said the expected cost of running the facility had increased to almost $3 million.
The reasons for the council deciding to lease the floor at commercial rates remained sound, he said.
Revoking rents
For (5): Crs David Benson-Pope, Christine Garey, Carmen Houlahan, Marie Laufiso, Steve Walker.
Against (7): Mayor Jules Radich, Crs Bill Acklin, Kevin Gilbert, Cherry Lucas, Mandy Mayhem, Jim O’Malley, Brent Weatherall.
