TUPs explored

Council is looking at expanding provisions relating to temporary use permits (TUPs) in town. Planner Christopher Garrish said legislated changes to the Local Government Act will allow council to consider issuing TUPs in a wider range of circumstance and for a longer period of time (three years instead of two). These permits allow developments that may otherwise not be permitted in certain areas. For example, an application for a TUP was recently submitted to the Town, which seeks to introduce a temporary retail use (non-conforming flea market at 248 Co-op Avenue) in an industrially zoned area. Garrish said it is proposed that the Official Community Plan be amended so that all land uses be considered for TUPs. Councillor Dave Mattes said they need to investigate the status of existing TUPs and should look at ways of correcting them. Council plans to hold an open house prior to a public hearing to get local feedback. The Town will postpone a decision on the flea market’s application until after adoption of the amendment bylaw.

Development permit approved

Council approved a development permit application with variances at 429 Hillcrest Avenue. The applicant proposes to construct a new accessory building (garage) and is seeking to vary the rear parcel line setback from 6.0 metres to 0.6 metres, and the interior side parcel setback from three metres to 0.6 metres. The garage will be approximately 6.1 metres in width by 9.15 metres in length, for a total floor area of 55.82 square metres. This building will be used in association with the existing vehicle sales use of the property. The garage is required to perform safety checks on the vehicles purchased for re-sale. Councillor Dave Mattes said he visited the site, noting it appears the development will fit in nicely with the neighbourhood. “It looks like a great addition to the property and area,” he commented.

Town council sets September 21 for by-election 

 Local voters could be looking at a September 21 by-election if outgoing town councillor Linda Larson agrees to submit her resignation in time.  According to the Chief Financial Officer David Svetlichny, Larson would need to give written affirmation of her resignation by July 8 for a September 21 vote.  If Larson does submit on time, candidates would need to submit their nomination papers on July 17 and 24. The nomination period would take from August 6-16.  The new councillor would be sworn in October 1, just in time for budget discussions. “Tell Linda to hurry up and resign,” joked water councillor Rick Machial. Mayor Ron Hovanes assured members of council that Larson has said she will cooperate and do her best to accommodate whichever date council chooses.  In the meantime, she will not accept compensation for her council duties until she resigns. The money being saved will go towards paying for the by-election. Deputy corporate officer Linda Schultz confirmed there will be an advanced voting day.

Council releases 2012 Annual Report

The 2012 Town of Oliver 2012 Annual Report is available for public inspection online, or at the Town Office, 6150 Main Street, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The annual report includes:

  • the 2012 audited financial statements
  • a report on property tax exemptions and the value of the exemptions
  • a progress report on objectives and measures set in the 2011 Annual Report
  • a report on municipal services and operations for 2012
  • a statement of objectives and measures that will determine progress respecting objectives for 2013

To view the online version visit  http://www.oliver.ca/news/2012-annual-report