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March has seen major changes in our Parish and many activities with parishioners.

Several members of our Committee have been away for several weeks. There have been changes in the Parish, with Rev. Sharon now acting as a part-time resource for the Seize the Day Campaign and the PDC, and we have welcomed Rev. Angus Stewart as our Interim Priest in Charge.

In late February, the Diocese approved St. Catherine’s request to increase our bridge loan line of credit financing by another $300,000, to now total up to $600,000 (the sum approved at Vestry in February 2024).  This is to finance ongoing project costs until the surplus land is sold. 

On March 11, PDC met with representatives from the planning department of the District of North Vancouver and gave them a tour of the church. A number of issues were discussed, including the heritage assessment of our buildings and pending updates to the DNV’s Official Community Plan before year-end. More meetings will ensue while we work toward obtaining the official response to our preliminary planning application.  March seemed to be a month of waiting on various issues that have yet to be resolved with the District.

Billy Garton and Heather Luccock met with two representatives from the preschool to review our interim transition use and future building plans. We looked at the plans for the preschool area and sought their input to address any concerns. The meeting went well.

Construction cost estimates from two possible companies are being considered and will be followed through once everyone returns from their travels. Paul Reynolds, Director of Projects, Affine Climate Solutions, will prepare a matrix for comparison.

We expect to appear before the District’s Heritage Advisory Committee at their April 23rd meeting to discuss our plans for dismantling the gymnasium wing.  Much work is being done to prepare for this presentation as it will be a significant step towards obtaining the District’s formal response to our plan.