The future of popular summer arts programs run by Island Mountain Arts, an artist-run centre in the picturesque village of Wells in Northern British Columbia, is up in the air with news that the elementary school it uses is about to be condemned.
CBC News quotes officials as saying the 1940s-era Wells-Barkerville Community School, a community hub that also houses studios and a daycare, contains lead and asbestos and needs costly repairs that locals cannot afford.
"It's definitely on the verge of being condemned," says Donna Forseille, chief administrative officer for the District of Wells, which owns the building.
Julie Fowler, the director of Island Mountain Arts, told Galleries West that there's lots of confusion in the community about the decision.
"A task force is coming together in the community to give voice to the user groups and community members who are affected," she said, noting that she has seen nothing in writing about health and safety risks at the school.
A portable is being brought in to house about 20 elementary school students this fall.
Source: CBC News