The City of Delta has an agreement with McKee Athletic Association for the transfer of ownership of the East Delta Hall and its surrounding property to the City for the nominal price of $1.
According to the city, this generous contribution marks a significant step in preserving Delta’s heritage and ensuring the continued use of this iconic community hall.
“We are extremely grateful to the McKee Athletic Association for their exceptional generosity,” said Mayor George Harvie in a news release. “Taking ownership of East Delta Hall underscores council’s dedication to preserving Delta’s rich history and culture. This Hall will continue to serve as a vital community gathering place, and we look forward to enhancing and preserving it for future generations.”
Built by Delta’s pioneer farming families on land donated by the McKee family, East Delta Hall has been a cornerstone of the community since its opening on Jan. 29, 1931.
Located in the farming community of east Delta, the Hall has hosted a variety of events including weddings, dances, sporting events, Christmas concerts, and artisan crafts and holiday markets.
“We are pleased to have the opportunity to gift the historic East Delta Hall to the City of Delta,” said Lorne Embree, a director of the McKee Athletic Association. “This Hall has been a cherished part of our community for over 90 years, and we are confident that the city will continue to honour its legacy while ensuring it remains a vibrant gathering place for our community.”
As part of the donation, the McKee Athletic Association has requested council consider adopting a heritage designation bylaw to formally recognize East Delta Hall’s heritage status. While East Delta Hall is currently listed in the civic rural heritage inventory, city staff will present a heritage designation bylaw for East Delta Hall at a future council meeting for consideration to help ensure the long-term preservation of the building.
The city also entered into an agreement with Mr. Mom’s World Catering and Events, the current caterer and curator of the East Delta Hall. Mr. Mom’s is responsible for managing bookings and events and maintaining the property in addition to the historic St. Stephens Church located nearby.
The city plans to install a commemorative plaque to acknowledge the history of East Delta Hall and the contributions from individuals and families that constructed and operated this Hall for over nine decades.
