By Jeff King--Construction of the Co-op's new building in Masset is on schedule and is set to open in August, Co-op general manager Richard Clarmont told those attending the association's annual general meeting in Masset on Sunday.
"This coming summer proves to be a very exciting one for the association," he said, "with the resumption of daily ferry service bringing tourists back and the anticipated grand opening of our new Marketplace Food Store in August.
Construction on the $3.9-million facility began in October. Right now, the foundations are finished, steelwork up and the building is framed in. It's expected to be to lock-up stage within a few weeks, and to be ready for a grand opening August 1.
Mr. Clarmont also said that the Coop had an excellent year last year, with record sales of $11.8-million, and savings (or profit) of $594,100.
"Even with the pending construction costs of our new food building, the board has authorized patronage refunds to our membership of $163,036 this year," Mr. Clarmont said.
Mr. Clarmont also noted that the Gwaii branch in Skidegate continued to grow last year, with a $200,000 increase in sales, and said the south-end appliance centre has proven to be successful.
Association president Glenn Fahlmann could not attend, but his report was read by vice-president Bret Johnston.
Mr. Fahlmann's report noted that the association has had an excellent year and "we continue to be optimistic that the economy of the islands will improve".
He said there has been an increase in Coop members, with 149 joining, and 50 leaving. The Coop's active membership is now more than 2,600, Mr. Fahlmann's report said.
Mr. Fahlmann noted that the Coop had approved donations of over $11,000 last year to various non-profit organizations, with special emphasis on youth projects.
And he asked members to give special recognition to Margaret Spencer, leaving the board this year, for her 13 years of service to the association.
Three seats on the board were up for election, and were filled by acclamation. Peter Hamel is the only new board member. Incumbents Bret Johnston and Fran Redick are back, all three for three year terms.
Door prizes were then awarded, with most of those attending winning something. (Your reporter took home a stainless steel vacuum bottle, and immediately gave it to his wife).
Then, one final draw for a flight for two from Sandspit to Vancouver, won by Frank Laberge (see photo).