“As a result of the new breath of life afforded the Branch at the May 29,1969 meeting, members of the Executive were able to set about seeking a piece of property on which a building could be constructed. It was not until the General Meeting on April 27,1970, held at the United Church hall, that a letter was presented in which the Village Council offered Lot 5 to the Branch for purchase at $2500.00 or a 50-year lease at $50.00 per annum. The members voted to lease. Exactly what negotiations took place in the ensuing months is not stated in the Minutes. However, at an Executive meeting on June 8,1970 again held at the United Church hall, it was announced that the Village would not consider selling part of the Lot – lease or buy the entire property were the only options. The Executive decided to recommend purchase for the stated amount, to the general membership.
A copy of an agreement between Branch 76 and the Village of Qualicum Beach was read by Past-President Dawburn at a General Meeting on December 14, 1970, in the Small Hall of the Recreation Centre. A vote was taken and it was carried to proceed with the purchase for the sum of $2500.00.
As the lot was heavily forested with major trees, brush and deadfall, some of the clearing was contracted out to Jenkins Bros. for bulldozer work. Some financing was provided by a Local Initiatives Program and paid workers were reimbursed from this source.
Progress was reported by President S.B. Harford at the February 22, 1971 General Meeting, held in the Small Hall, Community Centre. Building ideas and designs were discussed, including pre-fab construction.
The Executive Committee held a meeting on May 18/71, at which a Finance Committee was established. Its objective was to conduct a feasibility study for the construction of a Branch building, targeted for September 1971.” – From www.legion76.ca.
