Penticton Legion begins process of relocating

Penticton’s branch of the Royal Canadian Legion is beginning the process of relocating from their Martin Street location.

“The membership has decided they want us to explore the possibility of moving to 257 Brunswick St.,” said zone commander Wayne Knight, who is currently managing the branch.

“Next week, we meet with the landlords and we’ll start the process.”

Related: Penticton Legion eyeing new location

If the negotiations are successful, the Legion would have to move by spring 2019.

“We have to be out of this building by the end of April,” said Knight.

Moving will help put the Penticton Legion, which has been struggling for years with declining membership, on a better foundation.

Related: Penticton Legion put into trusteeship

“The lease is less and the utilities are considerably less,” said Knight.

One of the biggest items to move, he said, is the club’s liquor and gaming licences.

Then there is the more physical items that have to be moved.

“The membership will make those decisions as to what is going to be moved to the new building and what we may sell or donate to other branches,” said Knight. “Most likely, we will have a garage sale.”

Knight said the seating capacity at the former Anavets Club is basically the same as the lounge side of the current location, and they are going to try to maintain business as usual after the move.

“The goal is to put in a proper commercial kitchen and maintain the lunches,” said Knight. “We want to keep it as close to what is running now when we move.”

Related: Penticton Anavets Club closed