There is another side to the Spruce Grove lease issue that is not receiving much air time. Most of us recognize the importance of the Waldorf School, an independent private education facility, to some members of the community and are empathetic to their situation, but council has decided it is time for a permanent site elsewhere.
The fact is as the community has grown so has the need for meeting space by other groups and organizations within Whistler who struggle to find space to run their much-needed programs. Think about it. While much smaller communities, including Pemberton, have community centres, our beautiful resort community does not. Our Meadow Park Sports Centre simply does not have the meeting rooms and facilities to meet the needs of Whistler residents.
Whistler needs a community space where the municipality, along with local organizations, can offer programs, activities and events for all residents. We are thinking in particular of the 55-plus seniors demographic that comprises more than 25 per cent of Whistler’s population and is growing. It has been almost impossible to find suitable affordable space to socialize and run health and wellness programs for our seniors. Other Whistler organizations face the same problem.
For seniors, we are looking for a permanent shared space with accessible parking nearby, and designated times for our activities. The Spruce Grove Field House was once a community amenity and would be perfect. Without proper facilities and programs, our seniors will continue to be forced out of Whistler, a place they have greatly contributed to for many years and call home. That is not fair, either.
It may not be popular, but council’s decision on the Spruce Grove property should be applauded. It is time to consider the best uses of Spruce Grove for the entire community.
