Place Maillardville Society to close by summer
A Coquitlam institution will shut its doors later this year, according to a recent release from Place Maillardville Society.
“Despite the best efforts of our staff and board of directors, the loss of a large portion of our funding has proven too much for our society to carry on,” the release stated.
After more than two decades at 1200 Cartier Ave., the old building was recently replaced with a new community centre. In March 2022, the City of Coquitlam announced the municipality would handle operations at the 22,000-square foot facility.
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The announcement was a disappointment, noted Société Place Maillardville president Bill Boons at the time.
“While the society is disappointed with the decision by the city to take over operations, we remain optimistic and committed to continuing to operate and deliver valuable programs that the society has offered in this community for many years,” Boons stated.
There were objections to the city’s decision, with former Place Maillardville worker Darcy McNeil characterizing the move as a betrayal in a letter published in the Tri-City News.
McNeil called for the city and society to share the space.
The society moved its offices into Maillard Middle School in the fall of 2022, offering programs at remote locations.
In August 2023, the federal government awarded Place Maillardville Society $18,700 to help with a fundraising marketing plan.
The society’s spring breaks camps will go ahead as planned. However, while Place Maillardville may offer some programs in April and May, the society: “ will not be able to offer programs this summer and beyond,” the release stated.
A message signed by the society’s board of directors lamented the closure.
“For some, Place Maillardville has been a part of your upbringing, while for others, it spans across generations within your family,” the message stated. “The memories created here are timeless treasures we hold dear, and the experiences shared will never be forgotten.”
An interview request was not returned by press time.
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