A new survey of Langley Township community halls has found most are in good physical and financial shape.
As of 2013, the most recent year fiscal figures were available, 11 of the 15 halls were operating in the black, three were “close to breaking even” and one was in the red.
The survey doesn’t identify the lone hall that lost money.
It shows eight halls have seen revenues rise, five have reported no change and two reported a drop in revenue.
About half of the halls were rated in good to excellent condition by the societies that operate them, while the rest were said to be in fair shape.
None of the halls were rated poor, defined as “in need of immediate repair.”
One hall complained about a shortage of parking spaces.
The 15 halls range in age from 35 to 118 years.
The smallest is the Aldergrove Veterans and Seniors Society Hall, which accommodates up to 50 people, while the largest is the West Langley Community Hall, with room for up to 270.
Eight of the 15 halls reported annual gross revenues of $24,000 or more.
The survey shows that film and television production fees were a substantial source of revenue for the 15 halls, third in importance after rentals (ranked first) and government grants (ranked second).
The most common events hosted at the halls were banquets, weddings, anniversaries and special events, followed by community meetings and fitness-related classes.
Most users were private individuals and nonprofit clubs and service organizations, followed by businesses, religious organizations and government agencies.
Most halls reported annual expenses of more than $12,000, mostly for heat, light and insurance.
Nine halls have paid staff.
Four of the halls have seen a drop in the number of volunteers who look after the facilities, while two have seen an increase and the other nine report no significant change.
The survey was conducted by the municipal Heritage Advisory Committee while it was working on the new Community Halls Sourcebook, a “go to” guide to help non-profit societies operate and maintain the halls.
It covers everything from legal responsibilities and financial management, to building maintenance and succession planning.
The book was officially unveiled May 5.
