Recently there has been a request by the mayor to council to list city owned lands with future consideration to sell one or more to lower taxes [“Powell River mayor’s motion on city-owned land use fails,” May 23]
The most valuable of all city-owned properties is the old arena site at Willingdon Beach. It is the jewel in the crown. What is the monetary value of this desirable waterfront property? Millions.
What is its true value? A billion, zillion smiles, laughter and memories as a meeting place owned by the entire community. A special place which is passed down from generation to generation.
Thirteen years ago, March 1, 2012, I wore a button “Save Willingdon Beach” and attended a crowded city hall where a petition, with 3,500 signatures, was presented to council. The petition opposed council’s decision to build a new library at the Willingdon Beach old arena site.
A speaker for the Save Willingdon Beach campaign brought to the attention of council, a covenant on the property which designates the entirety of Willingdon Beach for park purposes only.
With strong opposition to a library being built at Willingdon Beach Park, council purchased an existing building at Crossroads Village for the new library.
Three years later, on July 27, 2015, a meeting was held at Powell River Recreation Complex by City of Powell River’s parks, recreation and culture department to look 10 years into the future and discuss expectations for Willingdon Beach Park. After much discussion, those present came to the conclusion that the main purpose of Willingdon Beach Park is a public gathering place – a great place to hold large community events. According to one councillor who was present, it was Powell River’s public square.
Some places are just not for sale. The old arena site at Willingdon Beach Park is one of them.
Barbara Ann Lambert,
Black Point
