The District of Squamish is planning to replace the current muncipal hall with a new, larger Civic Block, which would also include an expanded Squamish Public Library, community centre, local school district and have other arts, culture and heritage uses.
Local resident Bob Brant had last year raised concerns about the project in a column for Squamish Reporter.
“We are working on the bigger-picture future of our municipal facilities and taking the time to do our due diligence, to engage in conversations with School District No. 48 and all stakeholders at the table,” says Mayor Armand Hurford. “Most importantly, we want to maximize potential opportunities and ensure we are working through our list of priorities in a way that is responsible, strategic and in the best interest of our community.”
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In April, council decided to determine the feasibility of the Civic Block and future Brennan Park Recreation Centre projects. Also included was funding for an Innovation Area to maximize economic development on District-owned lands in the Squamish Business Park. Decisions on all these issues are expected to be finalized by July 2024.
District said it is happy to be working with SD 48 on potential opportunities for shared space.
“School District No. 48 recognizes the value of collaboration and the benefits it can bring to both organizations,” says School District No. 48 Board Chair Rebecca Barley. “This is the result of many discussions and we look forward to keeping the community informed about the outcome of this joint endeavour.”
The District is also pursuing funding to advance Brennan Park Recreation Centre upgrades forward. A preliminary Brennan Park Recreation Centre Master Plan was presented to Council on June 13, the completion of which is an important step in securing grant funding for future phases of work, District said. Upgrades include the renovation and retrofit work currently underway, such as a new pool and ice rink, arena flooring replacement, hot water upgrades, and lighting upgrades.
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Endorsed by Council in 2018, the District’s Real Estate and Facilities Strategy (REFS) identified that many District facilities are reaching end of life and are in need of upgrade, expansion or replacement in order to meet the current and long-term needs of the community.
Patricia Marini says
At last something the community has been suggesting for years!