The Cowichan Capitals hockey organization has officially expressed its disapproval of the decision made by the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) to utilize the Heritage Hall at the Cowichan Community Centre as an emergency weather facility for homeless individuals in the area during severe weather conditions.
John Dewar, President of the Cowichan Capitals, conveyed the organization’s recognition of the necessity to protect the unhoused population during extreme weather conditions. Nevertheless, he voiced disappointment in the CVRD’s lack of consultation or notification to the tenants of the Cowichan Community Centre prior to designating the Heritage Hall as a warming centre. Dewar emphasized the potential financial impact on the hockey club due to this decision and raised concerns about the accessibility of the arena for handicapped patrons, as well as the safety and convenience of fans and season ticket holders.
John Elzinga, the CVRD’s General Manager of Community Services, has confirmed that a response to Dewar’s concerns is in the process of being prepared and will be presented at the Cowichan Core Recreation Commission meeting in January. CVRD Chairman Aaron Stone reiterated his support for the staff and the recreation commission in addressing the issues raised by Dewar.
The emergency warming centre at the Cowichan Community Centre, which opened on December 12, surpassed its capacity on the first night, accommodating 18 individuals. The Heritage Hall will continue to function as the warming centre until March 31, with activation dependent on temperatures reaching 2°C or below, compounded by adverse weather conditions such as high wind, rain, or snow.
In his communique, Dewar inquired about the security and safety measures being put in place by the CVRD and sought clarification on potential compensation for the Cowichan Capitals due to the financial consequences of the warming centre on their operations. He underscored the significance of maintaining positive relations with the community and the CVRD, expressing the hockey organization’s desire to uphold the Cowichan Community Centre as a vibrant hub for hosting Capitals games.
The Cowichan Capitals are committed to addressing the concerns of their fans and season ticket holders by ensuring that the impact of the warming centre on game day revenues is mitigated. Dewar emphasized the importance of upholding the organization’s financial stability in fulfilling its commitments to the community.
As the CVRD and the Cowichan Capitals continue to engage in discussions and seek resolutions, it is imperative for both parties to collaboratively balance the welfare of the unhoused population with the operational needs of the hockey organization. While efforts are underway to address the concerns raised by Dewar, the community eagerly anticipates a resolution that supports the interests of all stakeholders involved.