Sechelt council continued its discussion of parking management in downtown Sechelt, with some matters causing lengthy conversation at the July 20 regular meeting.
More than a dozen suggestions were presented and examined, including dedicated tour bus parking near the visitor centre. Although councillors felt it was an important matter, Coun. Alice Janisch took issue with the wording of the suggestion and wanted it removed while Coun. Ann Kershaw referred to the list as "just ideas" and said time was being wasted due to micromanaging.
Liquor licence
As warm weather is finally here, restaurants are looking to take advantage of it, including the Beach Buoy in Davis Bay.
The owners requested a temporary change to their food primary liquor licence to facilitate an outdoor event on Sept. 4. The free event will feature a barbecue and outdoor live music ending around 10 p.m. The purpose of the event is to promote the business and thank the public for their patronage.
Corporate officer Jo-Anne Frank told council the liquor board has no issue with the application, but council would have a to endorse a variance to the noise bylaw for the event to go ahead.
The majority of council supported the event; however, Coun. Fred Taylor took issue with possible noise infractions on nearby residents.
"There are a lot of residential people in the area. I don't believe we should allow amplification," said Taylor. "This is really going to destroy an evening for all the neighbours."
Coun. Alice Lutes pointed out staff's recommendation for the restaurant to notify residents in the area of the event. She said she didn't understand Taylor's objection, and cited other events that make noise such as jazz festivals normally ending by 10 p.m.
Kershaw also stated her support for the event.
"Sechelt is going to be a no-fun city, never mind Vancouver. I think until 10 o'clock at night anyone can put up with some music," said Kershaw.
Council voted in favour of the event and the liquor licence change with only Taylor opposed.
