The Town plans to rule on a parking bylaw contravention at 1021 Morningstar Road, where a tractor unit is being stored from time to time.
An Oliver couple is defending their right to park their tractor truck on their property, calling the complaint against them as “malicious.”
Don and Bonnie Thompson appeared in front of Town council last week to respond to their bylaw contravention at 1021 Morningstar Road.
Due to a complaint from a local resident, the bylaw officer informed the couple of the contravention. Bylaw 1350 states that no vehicle or equipment exceeding a gross weight of 4,500 kilograms, except a recreational vehicle, may be stored or parked on the property unenclosed.
In information provided by the Town, the complainant’s concern was that a private residence was being used as a “truck terminal,” with daily repairs and early morning starts.
Ernie Krochak, who lives at 1083 Morningstar Road, previously told the Chronicle that the bylaw prohibits this activity.
“They’re using it (the property) as a terminal.”
He also complained of diesel smoke from the tractor unit.
Krochak said he was the subject of bylaw enforcement previously when he placed decorative stones in front of his property.
“I was given 14 days to get rid of the stones, and I complied.”
So Krochak is questioning why the Town is dragging its heel on enforcing this parking bylaw.
Don Thompson agreed with Councillor Jack Bennest who stated there is a good possibility that the complaint is “malicious” in nature.
Don told members of council that his truck is in the driveway no more than 10-12 days a month. He noted the only work he does on it is some fabricating, but no oil changes or grease jobs.
“We do everything we can to not make it intrusive,” Don said.
Bonnie told council that they do not start the truck early (before 7) in the morning or come home late at night (after 10). She noted the tractor unit doesn’t bother any of their immediate neighbours.
Don said people don’t realize how much cities and towns depend on the trucking industry.
“Truck drivers get almost no respect. No matter where you go, truck drivers get no respect,” he stated.
Bonnie pointed out that everything in council chambers came by truck.
Mayor Ron Hovanes acknowledged the need for truckers in the community, but noted the Town has had issues (problems) in the past with the operation of large trucks in neighbourhoods. He added that the majority of bylaws in Oliver are enforced based on complaints.
“Bylaws are there for a reason,” the mayor said.
Bonnie said they know who complained in this case. “He has created problems for nearly everyone on the block.”
One neighbour referred to him as a nuisance, who “picks on” people every year. “It’s one thing after another. It’s not right what he does . . . he’s miserable.”
Councillor Larry Schwartzenberger suggested storing the truck on Sawmill Road, where other trailers and motorhomes are kept.
But Don explained this would be too burdensome and cost prohibitive.
Hovanes said council will review the issue and make a decision at a later date.
Lyonel Doherty
Oliver Chronicle
(The following are comments that people have posted on the Chronicle’s Facebook page regarding the Thompsons’ bylaw contravention.)
“Well . . . wondering if everyone who has a business based out of their home would kindly move their vehicles to the place on Sawmill. That way no one is infringing on anyone else’s right to their neighbourhood peace and quiet.
Good Lord, what about the other members of the community who park their vehicles and start them up early – RCMP, ambulance attendants . . . What about the fellows who drive big diesel pickups? They probably start them up in the neighbourhood too.”
“I live in Oliver and drive through the neighbourhood often. The Thompsons’ yard is well cared for, the tractor truck doesn’t depreciate the look of the property. I think that Mr. Krochak needs to find another battle to fight, perhaps volunteer at the food bank, maybe read for the children at the Oliver Library, life is too short, pick your battles wisely.”
“If the working couple are parked in their own driveway, not on the city road, why is this such a big problem? They are very mindful of the neighbours, not starting engine early or coming in late, not doing mechanical fixes. Also the fact they are only parked at home a few days per month.”
“Some people need to get a life, live and let live!”
“I live in this neighbourhood and see nothing wrong with it!
“Malicious” or otherwise, I’m sure the bylaws on this topic were designed to satisfy the majority. Hats off to the city for facilitating parking space. I’d be curious how much this costs. With the reduction in fuel expenses it’s possible to balance the budget, ie. after all it’s a tax deduction.”
