Times Chronicle Staff

Oliver Town Council is looking at Lion’s Park as the proposed location for a new community pavilion.

That was the end result of a March 27 discussion when councillors weighed the benefits of two locations, including Station Street.

The mild debate hinged on a report by Director of Development services Randy Houle who presented preliminary drawings of a timber-framed structure 12 metres (40 feet) by 30 metres (100 feet) and eight metres (25 feet) in height.

Houle said 6359 Station Street is consistent with Option B of the 2020 Concept Plan and fits into an existing undeveloped space. He also noted this location requires minimal ground work and tree removal, and provides easy access for vendors, commercial and hotel customers.

Houle said this location is directly across from future residential development, and acts as additional amenity space in a secure, well-lit area.

Looking at the Lion’s Park location (near the Highway 97 access road), the director said Oliver Parks and Recreation staff advised this is the most appropriate location for the pavilion since it will have limited impact on trees and existing park infrastructure. It was noted this access road behind the Legion and OK Tire is due to be closed in future.

Houle said this location is not as aesthetically pleasing as the Station Street venue due to the “back alley feel.” He added that geotechnical work would be required at additional expense, and electrical wires would need to be relocated.

“It is further from the downtown and not as likely to be used for commercial purposes which was the original intent of the pavilion,” the director said.

Houle said that significant lighting upgrades would be needed, and a variance would be required for a front parcel line setback. Despite this information, council did not support the Station Street venue and opted to further explore the Lion’s Park location on the north side of the Oliver Visitor Centre.

Houle noted the recently shelved plaza proposal on Station Street could follow in the pavilion’s footsteps in the future, along with a xeriscape demonstration garden. Council recently put a hold on the plaza plan due to cost overruns that reached $1.5 million.