Proposed Grindrod Hall project moves ahead
Community efforts in Grindrod are being fast-tracked.
The Regional District of North Okanagan has agreed to expedite the application process to the Agricultural Land Commission for a proposed community hall in Grindrod Park.
“It’s a good project for the community and there’s a real need there,” said director Jackie Pearase.
ALC approval for non-farm use is required because the site is in the Agricultural Land Reserve.
“This is truly about community building,” said Patrick Nicol, RDNO chairperson.
A new hall would accommodate 100 people and be wheelchair accessible. It wold also have a concession, which could be used for events in the park such as the Garlic Festival.
“The community is 100 per cent in favour of moving forward,” said Herman Halvorson, with the Grindrod Recreation Association.
About $65,000 has been raised so far for the $265,000 project.
“I have spoke to MLA (George) Abbott and MP (Colin) Mayes and there could be grants available. There could be another $125,000 there,” said Halvorson.
The Enderby Lions Club is also potentially interested in getting involved and money will be raised from selling the existing community hall by Grindrod Elementary.
The present structure was originally constructed as a house in about 1905.
“You can jam 50 people into that hall and that’s it,” said Halvorson, adding there were 132 bookings last year.
A public meeting on the project will be held May 28 at 7 p.m. in the existing hall.
“I will give residents an update on what’s going on,” said Halvorson.
For more information about fundraising efforts, call Halvorson at 250-838-7407 or Lindsay Kibbe at 250-838-6096.
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