A Royal Canadian Legion branch in North Vancouver is asking the community for financial help after receiving a mandatory levy of $345,594 from its strata corporation for building envelope and parking slab repairs.
Bill based on depreciation report, payment deadlines loom
The levy, assessed through a strata depreciation report that outlined required repairs across the building, was apportioned to owners according to square footage. The Legion, which occupies one of the largest units in the strata complex on West 15th Street, was told it must pay the full amount by Dec. 1. An initial instalment of $175,000 is due on Sept. 1.
Legion president Eva Hinchliffe said daily operations remain sustainable but the branch is unable to absorb the large one-time cost. The branch has launched a GoFundMe campaign and other fundraising efforts to try to meet the levy.
“I’m an optimist. I think the community will help us,” Hinchliffe said.
Local fundraising and broader community role
The branch has so far raised more than $1,500 online and roughly $20,000 via cheques, cash and bank deposits. Hinchliffe said the Legion is also contacting family, friends, unions and businesses to widen support.
For decades the branch has provided veteran support and community programming. The Legion organises the annual poppy campaign — which funds services for veterans, supports cadet programs and donates to the Lions Gate Hospital Foundation — and runs social activities on site, including darts, pool, bingo, trivia nights and special events.
Consequences if levy is unpaid
Hinchliffe warned that failing to pay the levy by the deadline would force the branch to take on bridge financing, which would carry interest and further strain finances. The future of the physical hall and its role as a community hub would be uncertain if the branch cannot meet the strata's demand.
- Levy amount: $345,594 (building envelope and parking slab repairs)
- Initial payment due: $175,000 on Sept. 1
- Full payment due: Dec. 1
Context and next steps
Strata depreciation reports are standard practice to identify long-term maintenance requirements for shared buildings; costs are typically allocated by unit entitlement or square footage. Hinchliffe said the branch’s large footprint in the building resulted in a proportionally higher bill.
Community members and organisations interested in supporting the Legion should refer to the branch’s announced fundraising channels. The branch’s ability to continue its veteran-support programs and community activities depends on meeting its financial obligations to the strata.
| Item | Amount / status |
|---|---|
| Total levy | $345,594 |
| Raised online | $1,500+ |
| Raised by cheques/cash/bank | $20,000 (approx.) |
| First payment due | Sept. 1 — $175,000 |
| Final payment due | Dec. 1 |
The situation highlights tensions that can arise when community organisations occupy strata properties and face substantial capital repair bills. Local residents, veterans and partner organisations will be watching whether fundraising efforts can bridge the gap and preserve the branch’s role in North Vancouver.
