The cooperative's transition into receivership presented an opportunity for the acquisition of the 3.40 hectares BC Tree Fruits property located at 9718 Bottom Wood Lake Road, adjacent to the Winfield Arena. Following a swift court-ordered sale process, the District's offer of $9.1 million was accepted, with court approval granted on November 27th.
In response to Lake Country's growth and the escalating demand for recreational spaces, green space, and public amenities, the acquisition was deemed timely. The local government annually reviews community needs against budget allocations, with a strong emphasis on maintaining infrastructure such as roads, water, and sewer systems, alongside enhancing public spaces and recreational facilities.
Mayor Blair Ireland highlighted the challenge of aligning community priorities with strategic investments, emphasizing the value of seizing such opportunities when they align with available grant funding and reserves. The acquisition is viewed as a long-term benefit to the community, offering potential beyond recreation, including a new site for the RCMP detachment. The existing structures and the possibility of enhancing the Winfield Arena underscore the strategic value of this addition to Lake Country's assets.
The decision-making process underscored the importance of due diligence, ensuring the bid represented the community's best interests. With the acquisition now official, plans for community engagement in 2025 are underway to shape the future use of the property. This will be informed by the Sports and Recreation Needs Assessment conducted in 2023, the Official Community Plan, the Mobility Master Plan, and other key documents, reflecting the long-term vision of the Lake Country community.
Source: AM 1150