Sir: Thank you for your kind words regarding my father, Joe Storey, architect for the Chatham Civic Centre.
Sadly he passed away at age 52 shortly after construction began and never saw the finished product.
I wish to observe, though, that were two other people who deserved to be recognized for their role in seeing this facility built. First, Jim Jorden was the design architect who collaborated with my father on the concept and saw the project through to completion after Dad’s passing. We lost Jim too young in 1991 at age 48.
Second is Doug Allin who was mayor from 1971 to 1976, after serving many years on council, but never got to sit in the mayor’s chair as it was completed after he retired. Doug was the prime mover for an innovative approach at the present strategic location. We owe a great deal to Doug and his leadership.
From a design perspective there were many features at work but the most important one was the clear separation, both physical and symbolic, of the council chamber, the home of the voice of the people, and the administration area.
Finally, if memory serves (and it often doesn’t any more), council of the day held a public meeting where citizens were invited to offer their opinion about this undertaking before deciding to proceed. Imagine that.
Thanks again.
Tom Storey
Chatham
