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Centre has historic, community value

Once again the school board is ignoring the needs and wishes of the community with the threat of demolishing a local landmark

This Place Matters!

Once again the school board is ignoring the needs and wishes of the community with the threat of demolishing a local landmark.

The Salmon Arm Elementary School, now known as the SASCU Downtown Activity Centre, was originally called the Consolidated School. This important building, one of the few brick heritage buildings remaining downtown, will be turning 100 in six years.

Many generations of residents have walked its halls and still cherish those school memories. This landmark, frequently driven past by homecoming visitors and locals alike, prompts many nostalgic thoughts of bygone days.

It has been stated that the building itself is structurally sound.  Because it is a heritage building, it does not need air conditioning, Wi-Fi or modern furnishings. It is being well used by many user groups, even without these amenities.

The Downtown Activity Centre was set up to provide programs for the youth of the community. What becomes of these programs when the building is gone?

Deemed a heritage building by the Community Heritage Commission in 2012, the old elementary school has been put on a heritage register but not sanctioned by the school board.

We, as a historical society, urge the members of the community to get behind an initiative to save this building by signing the petitions currently circulating.

Submitted by Diane Ambil – on behalf of the Okanagan Historical Society, Salmon Arm Branch