The Land Conservancy of BC Leader Retires

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VICTORIA - Less than a day after CTV News exposed a financial crisis at The Land Conservancy of British Columbia, the organization is making major changes and its leader is stepping down.

The society that saved the Sooke Potholes and other green space across Vancouver Island and B.C. is now looking to save itself.

TLC is drowning in a sea of debt - missing mortgage payments and working to find half a million dollars to stay afloat.

When CTV News interviewed Executive Director Bill Turner yesterday, he made no mention about his departure from the organization.

On Friday, the Chair of the Board announced Turner's retirement promising to move a new direction.

"Bill has done some amazing work," Alastair Craighead tells CTV News "But Bill recognizes it is time for renewal."

The society says its money troubles are the worst in its 15 year history.

But the society's financial woes should come as no surprise.

In its last financial statement auditors warned there was significant doubt about the organization's ability to continue as a going concern.

"We are working on a plan to deal with our cash flow," says Craighead "We cannot rely on what's meant to come in."

To get costs under control the organization is downsizing operations and staff, restructuring debt and re-focusing priorities.

That could mean sites such as the Sooke Potholes will no longer be open to campers.

The board expects its restructuring to be complete sometime in September.



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