Bridge work continues in Williams Lake River Valley
City of Williams Lake Council approved more work to be undertaken in the Williams Lake River Valley as it targets a spring 2023 reopening following devastating flooding that forced its closure during the spring of 2020.
First, Council approved an adjustment to an existing contract with Quality Excavating to include the construction of two additional recovery bridges for a total project value of $476,907.50 and $264,842.50, respectively, including bridge engineering and contingency.
Second, Council awarded the contract for the River Valley Bike Bridge construction to Quality Excavating. The total project value is estimated at $271,530. Council also approved the budget overage of $70,530. The bike bridge project began in 2020 prior to flooding with the intent of building a pedestrian bridge to replace an unsafe log that was being used.
Tax exemption approved as part of downtown revitalization strategy
Council approved a Downtown Revitalization Tax Exemption application from T.R. Underwood (TRU) Engineering Ltd. for facade improvements, new signage, parking area upgrades and building addition at 452 Borland St.
Wendy's Development Permit Application approved by Council
Council approved a Development Permit Application for the construction of a new Wendy's drive-thru restaurant at 1704 Broadway Avenue South in Williams Lake.
The permit, submitted from Broadway Landco Management Ltd., will also include a variance to allow for one shared, off-street loading space between the new Wendy's restaurant and the existing liquor store on the property. The Wendy's will be built adjacent to the beer and wine store.
During the meeting, several residents spoke to express concerns surrounding public safety including traffic congestion at the intersection of Highway 97 and the proposed location, as well as an increased hazard for the many mountain bikers who frequent the area due to one of the City's main trail networks exiting nearby at the Tourism Discovery Centre.
Speaking in favour, Wendy's owner Pat Bell told Council the company plans to be heavily community-oriented, while a nearby restaurant owner said he welcomes more food alternatives at the south side of the City - especially considering how busy the area can be during peak hotel season.
Zoning Amendment Application approved on Proctor Street
Council approved a zoning amendment application for 911 Proctor Street, as well as entering into a restrictive covenant with
the property owner.
The zoning amendment allows for the addition of 'manufactured homes' under single family residential zoning. During a previous meeting, several nearby residents expressed concerns the addition of manufactured homes in the neighbourhood would decrease property value, however, the restrictive covenant agreed upon by Council will prohibit the placement of a manufactured home on the property unless it is new (no more than two years old).
Former gas station to be re-established with addition of drive-thru restaurant
Council approved a development permit for TK & Sons Contracting Ltd., on behalf of Wilson Creek Fuel Inc., to re-establish the former Shell gas station at 1238 Broadway Avenue, as well as to add a drive-thru restaurant on the property.
RCMP express concerns on ambulance service
Council agreed to express its concerns about the current lack of ambulance services available in the City and will request a meeting with the Minister of Health or ministerial staff members to discuss the matter.
The concern stemmed from a report from Williams Lake RCMP Staff Sgt. Darren Dodge, after police were forced to assist in transporting patients to hospital.
Dog Creek Road works authorized
Council approved the addition of Dog Creek Road to the list of streets for 2022 annual paving rehabilitation and agreed the budget for the rehabilitation project would be overspent by $186,000 to be covered by general fund reserves. Council also requested staff pursue a contribution to the cost of the project from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, as well as amended the recommendation to allow staff to single-source and waive its purchasing policy to allow for timely completion.
Additional disabled parking approved for CMRC
Council approved adjusting six existing parking spaces to four disabled parking spaces at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex to increase availability for patrons.