FUTURE OF THE CENTRE
MEMBERS HAVE A VOICE
It has been over 20 years since the idea of a member-owned and operated community centre was first initiated. As an established cooperative with a beautiful facility, our community has had a place to celebrate, collaborate and create for over a decade. The Centre Wakefield La Pêche Cooperative has succeeded thanks to the efforts of many volunteers, dedicated partners, and numerous funders. We are now well beyond the start-up stage and finding that the care of our building and meeting changing needs, interests, and growth in our area is pulling us beyond our human and financial capacity. We need stability and sustainability to thrive as a cooperative committed to serving the community we love.
Since 2018, efforts have been ongoing to explore solutions for the long-term sustainability of the centre. Numerous studies, engagements, and meetings have taken place including, in 2021, an offer from the Municipality of La Pêche to take over ownership of the physical facility. This preliminary offer included costs of maintenance, balance of mortgage, and continual repairs of the building. We, as a cooperative, would run the community programs, camps, activities, and events. We would also continue to share our space with the library, the WAY, and other partner initiatives.
In the fall, we will hold our Annual General Meeting to not only elect a new board of directors but also decide whether the Center’s future should include an expanded partnership with Municipality of La Pêche.
This page has been created to provide members the information needed to make an informed decision, and an online opportunity to provide your input on what a new agreement with the Municipality should include for the successful transfer of ownership and ask any questions. Please take the time to fully understand the opportunities and challenges ahead.
USEFUL RESOURCES
Co-creating the future:
- The CWLP Renewal Plan 2023-2026
This document consolidates the work of past Boards, relevant and recent research studies and consultations and an analysis of the current internal and external challenges that the Centre is facing post-pandemic.
A video recording from the evening is available upon request.
- 2020 AGM Presentation to Members
This presentation includes information on options considered for the long-term sustainability of the Centre.
Relevant Studies and Reports:
- 2021 MRC de Collines’ Presentation
This study was undertaken by the MRC de Collines at the request of the CWLP.
- 2022 Analysis of Performance Equipment Options (Theatre Wakefield-led proposal) (ON REQUEST)
This study was undertaken to help the Centre plan for equipment replacement in the Gwen Shea Hall for public events and performance productions. Three options are provided representing three different levels of investment.
This study was undertaken to confirm building maintenance and repair scope and priorities. Estimates on repair or replacement have been provided as well as a list of priorities and associated timeline.
The preliminary draft agreement:
- The 2021 draft agreement (PDF)
An adhoc committee including members of Board of Directors and members have been reviewing this agreement. Recommended changes to this agreement and the partnership protocol will be posted here at the end of August.
FUTURE OF THE CENTER FAQs
SHARE YOUR VIEWS AND IDEAS!
The Board of Directors would also like to hear your thoughts on the terms and conditions of an expanded partnership with the Municipality. You can either suggest specific changes to the agreement using the downloadable form below or email us your suggestions. Please be as specific as possible and provide a rationale for your suggestion(s). We also welcome your suggestions on the long-term sustainability of the centre!
Thank you in advance for taking the time to share your views on a way forward to sustainability together. |