By Lyonel Doherty
An animal lover in Oliver is applying for a temporary use permit to operate a rescue shelter at 5829 Sawmill Road.
Joeline Laliberte runs a home-based business called Paws and Claws Animal Grooming. In the last couple of years, she has become more involved in rescue operations.
“There are a limited number of rescues in the Okanagan and although I am small and home based, I am very busy and help a great many animals and families.”
In a letter to Town council, Laliberte said Oliver and surrounding areas have a major problem with feral cats, so she works to help end the cycle of unwanted felines and babies born with “no hope.”
She noted the permit will allow her to continue helping animals and controlling the pet population in Oliver.
On Monday, Director of Development Services Randy Houle will inform council that the applicant is operating the shelter without proper zoning.
He pointed out that the Animal Control Bylaw allows a maximum of two cats and two dogs (over six months of age) per residence. But given the number of cats and dogs that may inhabit the Sawmill Road property, a temporary use permit (TUP) is required, he said.
Houle said the property has been used as a grooming business and more recently a rescue operation with no complaints from immediate neighbours.
He noted that staff are recommending the TUP to determine what kind of fit the operation will have in the neighbourhood before permanent use.
Houle said the operation is unlikely to be incompatible with the surrounding area.
He pointed out the applicant submitted three letters of support along with a favourable petition from immediate neighbours.
