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The new multiuse facility is getting very close to an official grand opening. (Submitted/ Shirley Ulvid)
Community projects

Birch Hills named as finalist for provincial award

Nov 26, 2021 | 2:00 PM

A nearly seven year endeavour to convert an old Co-op store into a new multi-use facility, has earned the Town of Birch Hills some provincial recognition.

The town has been contacted by the Saskatchewan Municipal Awards (SMA’s) Selection Committee, and informed they are one of the top four finalists to receive a Saskatchewan Municipal Award. Mayor Stewart Adams told paNOW the nomination represents a feather in the cap for the community.

“It speaks to the good work of the community and the committee that has spearheaded the project,” he said.

(The new facility will include a large meeting room area. (Submitted/ Shirley Ulvid)

At the start up of the project planning back in 2015, the steering committee set a goal to raise $500,000 which they have been able to accomplish through grants and number of local fundraisers such as garage sales and donation drives. Committee member Shirley Ulvid, 83, is pleased with what they were able to accomplish.

“When you have to raise the money yourselves it has to take time. People were so generous,” she said.

Pending the final green light from a health inspector, the facility that will include a new space for seniors, as well as a brand new library, a large meeting room, and a big kitchen will be ready to open.

The new library will include four computer work stations. (Submitted photo/ Shirley Ulvid)

Ulvid said the seniors’ club plans to meet early next month with the Town and will have a better idea then what it will cost and more importantly when they can move in.

The SMA’s are a partnership between SARM, SUMA, and the Ministry of Government Relations. The winners will be announced during the SUMA convention on April 5.

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell

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