The City of West Kelowna has placed its plans to refurbish the former city hall site into a new community centre and daycare on hold. Officials say the project cannot move forward until the province approves a revised funding application.
After relocating to a new city hall a year ago, council agreed to restore the old building as the Mount Boucherie Community Centre. The refurbished site will serve as an 80-space daycare during weekdays and a community hub on evenings and weekends. The dual-use model aims to meet growing demand for early child care and provide flexible space for local programs.
Last year, the city partnered with BGC Okanagan and secured a $3 million grant through the ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund. That funding was based on an initial design that included a full-size gymnasium. Council reviewed three design options 18 months ago and decided to drop the gym due to cost concerns and the proximity of an existing gym at Mount Boucherie Secondary School next door. This change was seen as a way to reduce construction expenses and avoid duplicating facilities.
Removing the gym required officials to amend the original grant application and submit a new proposal. Erin Goodwin, the city’s manager of facilities and recreation, warned at the time that the grant amount could be reduced because of the design change. The city is now waiting for a response from the province on whether the revised plan will secure the full grant, a smaller amount, or be rejected.
Staff estimate that the redesign will cost approximately $6 million, including renovations, updated mechanical systems, interior finishes, and site work. The project also plans to improve accessibility, add a commercial kitchen for community events, and enhance outdoor play areas for children. If the full grant is approved, the city will cover the remaining balance through its capital budget and potential contributions from local donors.
City council has expressed confidence that the project aligns with community needs. “This centre will fill a gap in weekday childcare while giving residents a modern space for programs,” said one council member. The addition of flexible rooms will allow for arts classes, fitness sessions, meetings, and special events. The facility is expected to support hundreds of families and community groups each year.
Parents and community leaders have praised the concept. Local parent groups have highlighted the strain on existing daycare spaces as enrolment rates climb. The 80-space model was developed in consultation with BGC Okanagan, which will operate the daycare component. BGC Okanagan brings experience in early learning programs and youth services. The organization has committed to hiring qualified staff and implementing a curriculum that meets provincial standards.
The project timeline anticipates construction start in early 2026, pending funding confirmation. A six-month renovation period is planned, with the centre opening by late 2026. In the interim, some community programs may be hosted at nearby schools and parks to maintain local services.
Delays in provincial approvals have affected other municipalities as well, leading to a backlog of childcare projects. The province has allocated hundreds of millions of dollars to the ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund but faces high demand and limited application review capacity. Municipalities have called for faster turnaround times to meet urgent care needs and support working families.
Council is set to review an update on the funding status at its next meeting. If the province approves the full grant, work can proceed as planned. If the grant is reduced, council will explore options to scale back the project, seek additional partners, or adjust the capital budget. Officials have stressed that any changes will be made with input from stakeholders and residents.
For now, the site remains unused as city staff finalize grant details and prepare design documents. Once complete, the Mount Boucherie Community Centre will offer a modern, multi-use space that reflects West Kelowna’s growth and commitment to family services.
