Penticton city council gave a thumbs up to a series of variances requested by Gordon Ferguson to accommodate the improvements he plans to make around the concession in Lackawanna Park, which he leases from the city.
“The proposals provide a significant improvement to the concession offered in this location and are not considered to result in a negative impact on the use, enjoyment or operation of the park,” said director of planning services Jules Hall.
Ferguson requested three variances in setbacks in order to make room for an outdoor patio and a variance to increase the height of the fence he plans to install.
“This provides protection to the seating area, primarily from the wind,” explained Hall.
Council unanimously approved the variances without discussion. Ferguson said he is working hard to have at least some of the improvements complete for the summer tourist season.
Drought Management
City staff asked for council’s support in making an application to the Okanagan Basin Water Board Water Conservation and Quality Improvement grant program. Staff are requesting $12,500 from the grant program, which would be paired with matching funds from the city’s water reserve fund to develop a drought management plan.
Mitch Moroziuk, director of operations, said the project follows directly from the 2015 drought and work already done with the OBWB. The grant program provides funds to local governments, irrigation districts, and non-profit organizations for projects that conserve and protect water.
Council passed the recommendation unanimously.