Create a Seniors Strategy prior to the Establishment of a Seniors Hub

Comments

#1

Seniors are entitled to use the 55 as it was intended when it opened. The DOS has no business shutting us out without prior consultation.

Patricia Vesely (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#2

I am disgusted with what council and staff are trying to do to the seniors. It’s shameful

Joy Boulier (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#8

Think it’s bull shit. U want to use it for what it was not setup for. Go find something else. Try the old fire hall after helping hands moves. There must be other choices. Get a clue.

Deneen Kerr (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#10

This space is for seniors not anyone else.

Hannah Hälsingdal (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#14

This was originally was made for the seniors. Do not make life harder for them!

Carol Mahedy (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#20

I believe the senior center should be left as is and that we should not be displaced by councils decisions.

Sandie Gray (Garibaldi Highlands, 2020-10-02)

#21

This space was created for seniors. It’s needs to stay that way.

Fran Booth-Salter (Garibaldi highlands, 2020-10-02)

#27

The Seniors deserve the right to have this place for them. Use the seniors place for what is was ment to be for. The seniors.

Mike Adams (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#28

Because it is for the seniors!

Valerie Ede (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#29

Seniors life’s matter to.

Darleen Merz (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#31

Everything is taken away and given to the youth. Seniors need a safe place to go too. That centre was paid for by money raised specifically for that.Are they going to return that money? Or will this be another case of “you build it and we will repurpose it when we feel the need”

Judy Chapman (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#32

Seniors deserve and have earned a dedicated Activity Centre of their own ...they have that today. Tomorrow they may not as the space at Westwinds is only assured for 5 possibly 10 years and will e governed by another operator! SAC will not have any authority. BAD!

Corinne Lonsdale (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#33

This is not right to remove the seniors out of there place to make it a youth centre after all the seniors did with there money

Linds Genio (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#36

Seniors need their space and shouldn't be taken over by other groups.

Bev Rickert (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#37

Because its not right to take this away

Karen Allaby (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#38

This is not right!

Raegan Huska (Brackendale, 2020-10-02)

#39

This decision was done without discussion and information with the seniors to properly work with both sides

Charlotte Stuart (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#40

This is just plain WRONG!!

Nancy Carson (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#41

I do not feel they should be taken out from the seniors as there is hardly anything for them to do as it is and I feel the youth have a lot more options in town than the seniors

Ashleigh Preston (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#46

I don’t like how pushing around seniors is being done by dist of Squamish

Robert Stuart (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#48

Squamish needs a dedicated seniors facility.

Sharon Tait (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#51

Staff and Council have not done the proper investigation and consultation regarding seniors' requirements and facilities in Squamish.

Brian Finley (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#57

Because Seniors need this place.

Charlene Adams (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#60

We need our space kept where it is as we worked for this.

MARILYN Clark (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#61

I moved here 4 years ago and was happy to find a place that had programs for Seniors. The 55 Activity Centre was perfect for many of the Senior's activities & special events. From what I heard on the live web talk, the new proposed site does not seem to measure up to what the Seniors already have at their present location. Much more thought needs to be put into this before the MOU becomes a binding contract.

Margaret Frenette (Brackendale, 2020-10-02)

#65

As a senior we need this place for the community..

Germania Berry (Squamish BC, 2020-10-02)

#66

Squamish Seniors are active in community and yet have little voice in Council decisions. It would seem a wide perspective on Seniors Opinions and initiatives.

Riun Blackwell (Garibaldi Highlands, 2020-10-02)

#67

This is outrageous... the funds were raised and donated for a seniors centre. Let them have it and their programs. Mayor: take care of your elders. You’re gonna be one on day!

Kara Palangio (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#70

I do NOT want to see this center turned over to youth programs and young ones , daycare like programs. I know there is a proposal that we will be able to use the community room in the new building going up but that would be like going into other apartment buildings and using their community room. Too small a room and not usable for multi purpose senior activities. Also people living in the building will have their own activities leaving very little time for seniors. GIVE US BACK OUR CENTER BUILT FOR SENIORS AND WITH SENIOR FUND RAISING MONIES. CONSIDER THE ORIGINAL AGREEMENT WHY THIS CENTER WAS BUILT.

Nancy Moore (GARIBALDI HIGHLANDS, 2020-10-02)

#72

I agree that we need more consultation and explanation of why we need to use taxpayers dollars to fund a second Seniors Centre/ Hub when we already have the Seniors [55] planned by and for seniors.

Moira Biggin-Pound (Squamish, 2020-10-02)

#75

I am very upset with DOS

Nelson Winterburn (Squamish BC, 2020-10-03)

#79

Squamish council, unfair to seniors in Squamish

Brenda Addis (Brackendale, 2020-10-03)

#87

I want the Senior Hub to stay at the 55+ Centre and this facility to stay as a “Senior” centre.

Linda Turner (Squamish, 2020-10-03)

#89

I’m signing because I’m disgusted with the way council is ignoring the wishes of the seniors!

Pauline Lawrence (Squamish, 2020-10-03)

#91

It is clear that the original plans for the seniors of our town have been documented every step of the way. Let’s not make our seniors travel about town for the activities in our already failing transit service. The duty of ours it to uphold previous plans and not let the district of today farm out our seniors space because it is easier for them. Our seniors deserve a community too!

Angie Venekamp (Squamish, 2020-10-03)

#93

I am disappointed in the municipality's total disregard for the seniors of this community who gradually, but steadily, have been forced out of the seniors' centre (currently the 55 and soon to be a community centre) and are now being offered a new space into which seniors like myself have had no input and over which I feel we will have very little control.

Shirley Rutherford (Garibaldi Highlands, 2020-10-03)

#96

I’m signing this petition in support of the Squamish Seniors center. Seniors and others worked hard to make “The 55” come to fruition. Over the years it has brought many seniors together, providing many diverse opportunities for socializing and personal development; new friend, reacquainting with old, knowledge building, new adventure and exercise. For relaxing and meeting. For lunch in a quiet space. It is Our Place.
It was built for seniors, anticipating the future where, as our community ages, there would be a special place for many more members. It was built to anticipate growth in numbers and growth in activity. It is thriving. Seniors have a place, just as the youth and younger adults have many place-S to do the same. Baseball fields, soccer fields, badminton, swimming, outdoor exercises, courses etc. You only have to look at the Recreation Guide to see all the opportunities youth have in our town.

To take it away from us without proper and timely consultation and by sliding youth slowly into the space that you were ultimately planning to take over is underhanded. You are showing utter lack of regard and respect for seniors - most of whom have duly paid their taxes and supported through volunteering and donations this community for many, many years. Remember you may well be unfortunate enough to be facing this same lack of respect, ill treatment and loss of home yourselves in the future.

We live in a growing town, where many people are adding to the tax base. Use some of these monies to expand Brennen Park to accommodate increased numbers and evolving activities. Keep the youth activities in one area so Brennen Park remains a center hub. Make it a one stop access for all municipal activities where youth can meet in one place. This whole effort to evict the seniors from their place is being slyly and craftily done. It is shameful.

Brenda Triance (Garibaldi Highlands, 2020-10-03)

#97

I feel very strongly regarding the 55 Centre remaining where it is.

Rita Ottema (Squamish, 2020-10-03)

#98

I believe the former Seniors' Centre, renamed 55+ should be maintained as a Seniors Centre only as was originally intended. Seniors matter, and deserve a place of their own to get together, especially since they have raised so much money towards the Seniors' Centre. Seniors deserve respect.

Marlene Russell (Squamish, 2020-10-03)

#102

The Seniors need to remain in the 55. This is their designated space. Seniors want to be "under one roof". The 55 is our home... we wish to remain there. This is so upsetting. Please just leave things as they are.

Carol Laktin (Squamish, 2020-10-03)

#104

I’m signing because this existing council has reneged on a few promises to the seniors and are continually doing so. The seniors have worked hard in their lives and are due their respect. It looks to me like our council does not ever believe they will seniors. Unbelievable!!

LaRoy Watt (Squamish BC, 2020-10-03)

#105

We must improve our Seniors' Activity Centre, not remove it!! The "West Vancouver Seniors' Activity Centre" is an excellent example. Let volunteers play a greater role. Each of our seniors has a lifetime of wisdom and experience. Listen to them!

Ian Brown (Squamish, 2020-10-03)

#106

I support the seniors center to stay

Janine Reynolds (Squamish, 2020-10-03)

#107

When is the Westwinds be finished? Hardly mid 2021. Seniors Strategy needs to be drafted.

Sarka Lhotak (Squamish, 2020-10-04)

#108

Seniors services need to remain where the seniors housing is centralized, otherwise we need to provide seniors with transportation to services at other sites.

Vickie Nickel (Squamis, 2020-10-04)

#109

Nothing like complex legalese as an excuse for why seniors weren't a part of the decision making process at the onset which should have begun pre-Westwinds build.

55 Activity Centre = is their hub and, following the opening 14 years ago, the aging community have enjoyed it, created many activities, including programs for the mentally capable and physically challenged. Some met with no help from the DOS. The lawn bowling green comes to mind - DOS claimed no funds to maintain it and suggested perhaps seniors can maintain it themselves - now, it sits, surrounded by broken fencing and is a hub for teens to late-night gather).

We moved into Eaglewind due to proximity to the “seniors centre”, as did many others.

55 Activity Centre = a high-traffic area, with scarce unmanaged parking, due to community residents utilize the spaces, all future activities planned should be managed, and funded, by the DOS (yet they continue to maintain it's not their property to do so). This should be part of their planning initiative, for community safety, and YES I have expressed concern in emails and with council directly.

Westwinds complex = sadly, some seniors will be displaced, unable to move from the Manor into the new Westwinds building due to unaffordability, will find themselves scrambling to find a new home soon. As happy as I am for some who can afford to move into the new Westwinds complex (I understand the waitlist is big), my heart breaks for those left out in the cold who should have been given first dibs.

It is my hope that our community, aging and not, follow this closely, be heard, engage with the DOS and realize someday... it may be anyone of us as "seemingly invisible" seniors in Squamish.

Anne Bright (Squamish, 2020-10-04)

#110

I am turning 55 next year and moved across the street from the ‘Seniors Center’ years ago for that reason.

John Bright (squamish, 2020-10-04)

#111

After enjoying much of what the 55 Centre had to offer I am terribly disappointed by the disrespectful way Seniors are being disregarded

Florence Tetrault (Garibaldi Highlands, 2020-10-04)

#112

I'm signing because the needs of seniors in this community are being disregarded and dismissed. We feel that our needs matter too.

Delle Booth (Canada, 2020-10-04)

#114

Keep the 55 Activity Centre as it was supposed to be for the seniors and give them more programs so it will be utilized to its potential. How would you like to be evicted from your home? Shame n staff and Council

Rick Boulier (Squamish, 2020-10-04)

#115

Seniors are being tested as special interest, no direction, people and the “young professional” branding this town is pursuing is materialistic and will increase divide between the haves and the have not.

The backbone and wisdom are cast aside - wake up council, It’s a challenging job and some staff recommendations are systematically inequitable seniors - steel voice/Group self determination and much consultation has been little more than lip service...even before Covid, when we examine seniors needs
I’m a Squamish homeowner (tax payer constituent), over 55 and like many already have done, seniors a senior whose had to wa e their hands to get heard

Susan Le blanc (Squamush, 2020-10-04)

#117

This Council/CoW has failed dismally in consulting with not only the Seniors Centre Society Board but with the elders/seniors community of Squamish as a whole. It is allowing staff to run roughshod over the seniors and even over themselves. It appears to have discounted seniors'/elders' valid concerns, and not attempted to come up with a mutually beneficial agreement between the varius parties. It seems to have listened primarily to staff (whose salaries are paid for by the community, including the seniors/elders over umpteen years!), and discounted or minimized the concerns of the Seniors. Right now both parties (Seniors AND Council members) should go back to the drawing board and try to reach a reasonable compromise. And that includes bringing in and notifying more seniors/elders in the community who may not know about what is going on or have not had the "pro's and cons" set out clearly. Moreover Council should re-constitute the Seniors Committee which used to meet regularly with a Council member and a staff member to analyze issues that affect Elders in Squamish. And it should also address the "age'ism" which exists in our society but which is usually or often ignored and negated (this present situation or debacle is an example of that). Sooo, let's calm down, sit down again and have rational discussions about resolving this situation.

T. Carroll (Squamish, 2020-10-04)

#118

I believe the seniors of Squamish are being denied access to a facility which was dedicated to them. Serious communication between the District of Squamish and the Seniors Advisory Board needs to occur to arrive at a mutually agreeable solution to this situation.aaaaaa

Eleanor Bowcock (Squamish, 2020-10-04)

#119

My in-laws are affected and they value the 55+ Center.

Raphaela Linnertz (Squamish, 2020-10-04)

#122

I strongly disagree with the district of Squamish plans to relocate the seniors to a new location .It should be up to the seniors of this community to decide if it is a good move . Not to mention all the donated hours of their time and donations .

Jay Clarke (Squamish, 2020-10-04)

#124

I am signing this petition as I am fully support the Seniors staying at the 55 Centre. It was given to them by the community.

Michael Jenson (SQUAMISH, 2020-10-04)

#125

I am a senior. Seniors need senior spaces, and this space was built for and promised to Squamish Seniors - it should be inviolate. There are many places for youth (Bernnan Park, the Skate Park, Totem Hall, two High Schools, the great outdoors which is, btw, inaccessible for many seniors) and if there aren't - then build some!

Jude Goodwin (Squamish, 2020-10-04)

#126

seniors deserve to have their designated space.

Amanda wick (Squamish, 2020-10-04)

#128

It's getting tiring hearing about the bureaucrats and some Council members with their own agendas riding roughshod over the people of this community. They need to start listening to the Senior's concerns and open up the '"55" now. The maternalistic statement of our current Mayor goes beyond disheartening. It sounds like a done deal ..... "to make this space feel their own and meet their needs long term." If the current space is "underutilized" by Seniors, how would double the space be more efficient?

Chris Jenkins (Squamish, 2020-10-04)

#134

Fed up with council running rough shot over seniors

Glenn Stainton (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#136

Because I love our seniors and the need for a safe space is a must in our community at this time. Covid isolation is causing many issues for siniors and I soon one year away to be a senior myself.

Francine Lessard (Brackendale, 2020-10-05)

#137

This Centre offers essential services to our community members and particularly seniors. We want to attract all generations to be active members of our community and this Centre should be preserved to meet their needs.

Candice hatina Hatina (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#139

Seniors need this dedicated space as future population will soon expand its use

Kathleen Jamieson (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#140

I will soon be 55 and believe the facility should remain as it was built to be, a center for persons over 55 to gather and have activities

Lise-Anne Beyries (Garibaldi Highlands, 2020-10-05)

#141

Because it’s the right thing to do

Teya Mathias (Garibaldi Highlands, 2020-10-05)

#142

I am a senior and support the Squamish Senior Centre Society

Deidre Plaatjes (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#143

I would like to see our community continue to care for those who have allowed us to be where we are now and I hope that when I reach this stage of life someone will care for me.

Pip Parr (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#144

Discussed with the way seniors are being treated for a long hard fought facility they have worked for. NO EXCUSES

Dion Burke (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#145

Although I do not expect this to change the Council I add my support.I think it’s shameful the way Seniors are sidelined here ! So different in other communities!

Leone Braby (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#148

This was a huge asset and the reason so many live in the building. Please done take it away but if you want add a second hub and have two locations.

Heather Mazzotti (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#150

Our seniors deserve a place they can call their own and be relaxed in all under one roof.

Colleen McLellan (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#152

When I retired I had the great pleasure to discover the 55 Activity Centre facilities. Quickly I learned of a Senior’s Society presence and I appreciated their economic investments, their numerous hours devoted to organize multiple activities, socials meetings and building improvements.
Analyzing these factors I decided to joint them.
For the different segments of Squamish’s seniors ( younger, good health, creative and others) this location is ideal and very attractive. Ample parking paths, resting areas, meeting rooms and a spring floor board (perfect for dancing and exercise) are some of the unique attractiveness.
What can compare to the above mentioned?
Seniors need stability. Spreading us around town just creates, chaos..

Eugene Mensch (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#153

I believe the efforts and achievements made by seniors past and present and past Squamish Councils should be respected and upheld. Why should today's senior community in Squamish gave to fight the battle all over again?

Geri LoGiacvo (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#154

Because the Muni especially under this Mayor is trying to railroad their own ideas through with out prior consulting with the Seniors' Council.

Phyllis Carter (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#157

I am just 57 years old and have been waiting for my turn. It has a important that we elders have a supportive community. The access to downtown is easily accessible.

Audrey Kermeen (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#165

The senior's center should be kept such as.

Nancy Collings (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#170

This is wrong on so many levels!

Beverley Hansen (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#172

What you are trying to do is unacceptable and unfair to seniors. Shame on you Karen

Fiona Von Hahn (Brackendale, 2020-10-05)

#174

I’m signing because the District is not listening to seniors about the 55 Activity Centre remaining for Squamish seniors with the programs we are interested in. This space was dedicated for seniors in 2009 & should remain so. Thank you.

Kathy Jarvis (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#179

I want to have a senior's space to gather with friends my age, enjoy exercise and mental stimulus together.

Lynn Ledgerwood (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#181

We need this facility to stay open for our community! It was built for seniors

Tara Hunter (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#182

This is wrong the seniors need this .. what’s wrong with council .. some of these people have no family -this is their only social .. get it right squamish.

Tracy Acorn (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#184

I believe the 55 Centre should stay a place for seniors, who deserve a quality facility in this town. It's perfect where it is as it's close to several seniors residences including a new one being built. Youth can be better served at Brennan Park and near the high school.

Christine Endicott (Squamish, 2020-10-05)

#187

i'm soon to be a senior, and have worked in health care/geriatrics - it is appalling how little consideration seniors are given

susan Barry (garibaldi highlands, 2020-10-06)

#188

Im an advocate for seniors in our community.

Marie Freeman (Squamish, 2020-10-07)

#189

I agree that we as seniors are not being heard.

Judi Rhodes (Squamish, 2020-10-08)

#192

The seniors of this community must have input as to the decisions that will affect their physical, mental, and social well-being.....which of course will ultimately affect the "less senior" in the wider community!!

Carol Cameron (Squamish, 2020-10-09)

#194

I believe that Council is not taking into account Seniors needs.

John Ayre (Squamish, 2020-10-09)

#196

We have a fairly substantial senior population in Squamish. The center is, for many, the only social outlet available. It keeps many of us engaged and active. We need a strategy that will cover all aspects of senior activity.

Carol Forsyth (Squamish, 2020-10-10)

#197

I am appalled by the total disregard for Seniors' input as to how their lives could be improved. Mayor and council should remember, they are there to SERVE not to dictate.
What are they afraid of should Senior's have their say?

Michael Sherlock (Squamish, 2020-10-12)