A proposal to develop a new business centre at the former Lake City Ford site on Oliver Street came before city council Tuesday.
Council approved a request for a proposed purchase in the amount of $49,000 for an 11,848 sq. ft. road boulevard by Oliver Street Investments Ltd. (Sitings) to be consolidated with the adjacent property at 715 Oliver Street, formerly the site of Lake City Ford.
Council also approved amending the zoning of the property from service commercial to town centre commercial and to add "drive-through restaurant" as a permitted use.
The application will be now forwarded to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for consultation.
Zoning amendments approved for Slumber Lodge
Council gave third reading to a zoning amendment regarding the Slumber Lodge property on Seventh Avenue South. The amendment would allow for the development of a 10-unit residential housing complex. The application will now go to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure approval.
Westridge Ventures Ltd. new right-of-way
After hearing from the public during a comment period, council approved a statutory right-of-way for parts of lots at 351 and 375 Mandarino Place to form a new local road to support further development by Westridge Ventures Ltd.
Several strata owners voiced concerns during the comment period about being taxed for the road and that traffic would increase in the area more than it already is because of the new road.
Council further directed staff to look at the question of taxes and bring a report back for consideration.
Safety equipment purchase approved
The purchase of six sets of SCBA safety equipment for the city's firefighters was approved in the amount of approximately $44,742, including taxes.
Chief administrative officer Milo MacDonald said the city has been purchasing six units at a time each year to spread out the cost.
Tourism ad and project purchases approved
Approval was given to purchase an ad in the Cariboo Chilcotin Tourism Association travel guide at a cost of up to $3,000 and to participate in the Gold Rush Trail project, subject to development of a community collaboration between key stakeholders, for a cost of up to $3,500.
Walters appointed to NCLGA
Coun. Laurie Walters has been appointed to the Northern Central Local Government Association executive board for the 2017/2018 term.
Ryll to attend Fan the Flames Awards
Council approved costs for Coun. Jason Ryll to attend the Fan the Flames Awards Banquet and Gala taking place in Prince George on Feb. 9, 2017. Canadian Olympian rugby player Kayla Moleschi is nominated for the Sports Difference Makers Award in in the Senior Female Rising Star category. Cross-country B.C. development squad member Cole Turner is a nominee in the Celebrating Sport Junior Rising Star category.
Council also directed staff to develop a policy to support players that represent Williams Lake on a national level.