It was great news for members of the Royal Canadian Legion Tsawwassen Branch #289 and those who frequent the establishment.
The Legion since the mid-1990s has been leasing space in Century Square, a commercial complex in the 1800-block of 56 Street, owned by Century Group.
Acknowledging the rent break it has been getting from Century Group, the Legion was facing its biggest challenge as the property management company for the owner notified them when the lease was renewed in the summer of 2022, it would be the last.
That left the Legion, continuing to be active fundraisers in the community, looking for another affordable location as the clock ticked on the lease, which was set to expire Aug. 31, 2023.
Fortunately, after an extension, the two sides have been able to negotiate a new three-year lease.
Branch president Tanya MacNeill told the Optimist it was fantastic news and a great relief, as finding an alternate location in the community proved difficult.
“We went to several other different places to look for, like the Tsawwassen Commons area and anywhere within Tsawwassen, but market rates everywhere are just so expensive. As a not for profit, it was just way too much for us,” she said.
MacNeill noted other factors including finding the right size and a location where they could get a liquor licence also proved to be challenging.
“Not having to move was obviously our best-case scenario and we are so absolutely appreciative of the fact we were able to work out something that works for us both,” she added.
Century Group President Sean Hodgins told the Optimist that the credit really goes to property manager Simon Griffiths, who managed to negotiate something that makes the Legion happy. It is obvious there is a bond among people who frequent the Legion, so he is glad that can continue, he said.
In the summer of 2022, city council gave the branch another boost by approving an application to amend the liquor licence to make the temporary seasonal outdoor patio permanent.
