A plot of land in Cranbrook, B.C., has become the focal point of a community discussion. In an upcoming survey this fall, residents will be asked to provide input on the location for a proposed 10-bed hospice house. This decision follows a recent special meeting where the city council decided to maintain its initial public consultation strategy.
The Cranbrook Kimberley Hospice Society has requested a portion of the Mount Baker RV Park & Campground for the hospice project. However, on July 27, the council opted to gather public feedback on this site as well as four other potential locations. Despite Mayor Wayne Price’s proposal to approve the campground donation as a preliminary step, it did not receive support for further discussion.
A public survey is scheduled for September as part of the city’s 2027 Budget Citizen Survey, running from Sept. 8 to Oct. 2. The survey will seek community opinions on whether the hospice should be situated at the Mount Baker RV Park or one of the other suggested sites: the Frost property near St. Mary’s School, the Highlands lot, a Slaterville parcel, or land near the Kinsmen Quad Ballpark. The results will be presented to the incoming council in November to aid in making a final decision.
Nicole Wall, the operator of Mount Baker RV Park, expressed satisfaction with the extended decision timeline, emphasizing the historical significance of the RV park to Cranbrook and her desire to see it revitalized. Dating back to around 1925, the Mount Baker campground has served various purposes over the past century.
George Watson, chair of the Cranbrook Kimberley Hospice Society, highlighted the advantages of the Mount Baker site due to its proximity to East Kootenay Regional Hospital and accessibility for individuals from across the region. He clarified that the society’s intention is not to displace the campground, which operates seasonally from April to October.
Jeff Williams, a hospice volunteer, addressed potential misconceptions about hospice houses and their operations, describing them as tranquil facilities designed for end-of-life care focused on comfort rather than cure. The society noted the absence of a dedicated hospice house in the East Kootenay region, with existing palliative rooms in regional facilities being designated but not always available. Dr. Greg Andreas of Cranbrook emphasized community support for the hospice project during a council meeting in July.
In conclusion, the necessity for a hospice house is evident, with the primary question being its eventual location.