By Madeline Baker
The Portuguese Canadian Cultural Society (PCCS) has recently shown a significant increase in numbers with several young members joining their ranks, and the Town of Osoyoos plans to ensure that they have a space to meet by offering them a new five year lease on their current home.
While the building at 3600 Golf Course Drive is admittedly “nearing the end of its economic life” according to the town’s report to council, and the site might be put to better use with a new amalgamated multi-use structure in the long term, those plans would still be much too far in the future to enter into practical decision-making at this point.
Over their previous five-year term in the building, the PCCS has taken care of maintenance and utilities needs themselves. They plan to seek grant funding for larger repairs to the exterior doors and heating system.
“The likelihood of a significant investment [into the building] in the short term is unlikely” according to the town because they plan to prioritize “amalgamated building/facilities … to save costs, which could include shared facilities with Oliver and others” in the future to streamline infrastructure maintenance and save costs.
PCCS will be offered a five-year lease of $1 per term with an option to renew the lease for another five years after the first term.
Both town staff and council members spoke highly of the group’s involvement in the community, which includes hosting events like the upcoming Community New Years Party and taking part in the Cherry Fiesta Canada Day parade.
With their membership now above 70, the PCCS also hopes to offer high school bursaries in 2024.
