Court proceedings related to Prentice Park concluded this week after two days of hearings at the Supreme Court of British Columbia, bringing an important procedural milestone in the ongoing dispute over the proposed fire hall site at Servello Field.

Day 1 focused on initial arguments, with the presiding Justice appearing attentive and engaged as submissions were presented by the Prentice Park Society, the Attorney General, and the City of Fernie.

Day 2 concluded with the City of Fernie completing its oral arguments, followed by response submissions from legal counsel representing the Prentice Park Society and the Attorney General.

What happens next

The Justice has reserved their decision. Based on typical timelines, a ruling is expected in approximately a couple of months.

Key issues before the Court

The decision will address three central legal questions:

• Charitable Trust (1972): Whether a charitable trust was created when Prentice Park was transferred to the City in 1972 by Crows Nest Industries.

• Standing: Whether the Prentice Park Society has standing to bring these matters before the Court.

• Bad Faith: Whether the City of Fernie acted in bad faith when selecting Prentice Park (Servello Field) as the site for a new fire hall.

Construction pause confirmed

An important development from the proceedings is confirmation that the City of Fernie has agreed to wait for the Court’s decision before commencing any construction at Servello Field in Prentice Park.

Fundraising and public engagement

As the case moves into the decision phase, the Prentice Park Society continues to raise funds to cover ongoing legal costs through donations and other means. The Society has also indicated that a public forum will be scheduled in the coming weeks, providing residents an opportunity to ask questions about the court process and potential next steps.

Source: Prentice Park Society