The District of Squamish is “exploring” having the annual Re-Use-It Fair mid-summer as the muni searches for a different venue.
After initially announcing on Facebook that the Re-Use-It Fair would be cancelled due to ongoing upgrades at Brennan Park Recreation Centre, a spokesperson for the District says they are actively looking at alternative venues to host the event later than usual this summer.
“We know the Re-Use-It Fair is important to the community and we are exploring a possible venue for a mid-summer event,” wrote the District’s Rachel Boguski in an email to The Squamish Chief.
“The primary consideration for a venue is that it is accessible, centrally located, and offers a large, covered space with easy drop-off access.”
Boguski further said that if they cannot hold the event, the District will look for ways to “keep the momentum going on this initiative while we are without a suitable venue and how residents can get involved.”
“We will keep residents … informed as we finalize the plan.”
The April 11 Facebook post from the District alluded to a possible community-wide garage sale as a replacement event.
Local resident Craig Hunter wrote to The Squamish Chief, saying he had been attending the event since it was first held and that it had prevented tons of reusable items from going to the landfill.
“Best part it’s free,” he said. “This event put a lot of smiles on people’s faces.”
He called cancelling the event unacceptable.
Hunter wasn’t the only person who voiced concerns about the initial cancellation. Numerous comments on the District’s Facebook post expressed disappointment while also suggesting using Howe Sound Secondary’s gym.
The Squamish Chief attended the 2023 Re-Use-It Fair, where hundreds filtered through the ice arena looking for various items, including home appliances, movies, books, clothes, sports equipment and more.
When able, this event has been a yearly stalwart in Squamish since about 2010.
