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The Qualicum Commons will remain open for at least another year, with the Town continuing to operate the facility until June 30, 2027. (Image Credit: Town of Qualicum Beach)
temporary extension

Town renewing lease for Qualicum Commons

May 22, 2026 | 12:07 PM

QUALICUM BEACH — The future of the Qualicum Commons building appears to be safe for at least another year, with the Town opting to renew the lease on the building.

The Oceanside family programming facility at 744 Primrose St. was in jeopardy of closing its doors for good earlier this year, when the one-year lease agreement between the Town and the Qualicum School District was set to expire at the end of June.

Town Council passed a resolution on Wednesday, May 20, outlining the next steps for the building, giving the Oceanside Commons Society until June 1 to sign a sublease to take over the building’s operation.

However, the Town said in a release, the Society “does not currently have the capacity to assume responsibility for the Commons,” triggering the Town to renew the lease with the School District until June 30, 2027.

Council said this will allow the tenants more time to find a new location, as the Town does not have “the necessary funding, or staff capacity for the long-term management of the facility, given the operational demands, failing building systems, and required capital repairs.”

They said they’ll continue to maintain the building’s current operations, including minor repairs using the revenue generated by the tenants.

In response, the Society said this is “the outcome our community needs right now,” and will give them time to work with the Town, Qualicum School District, the building tenants, and residents to find a long-term plan to keep the building in operation.

Mayor Teunis Westbroek said in a statement, the Town is committed to working with the Society to find a long-term solution.

“The Town simply cannot absorb the long-term capital and operational costs of the Commons, given the potential burden on taxpayers, but we also know how vital this space is for the entire Oceanside area. The Society had signalled it was ready to take on those responsibilities. If they’re unable to do so, the Town will agree to managing the property for another year to give the tenants the time they’ve requested to relocate,” Westbroek said.

Town Staff were also advised to inform the School District they want to continue exploring the option of buying the property to be used as a long-term community hub.

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