Kamloops residents get say in changes to mixed-use complex

KAMLOOPS – Kamloops residents are being asked to weigh in over a rezoning to a mixed-use complex in the Southgate industrial area.

A mixed-use complex at 1452 McGill Rd. will contain 14 multi-family residential units and commercial space for a restaurant and offices. The proprietor is now asking the city to increase its restaurant occupancy from 50 to 150 seats and add additional office space. City staff do not object to the former because there is ample parking, but object to the additional office space.

Marvin Kwiatkowski, director of development and engineering, says office space is better situated in the traditional commercial cores, namely the Downtown and North Shore areas, as outlined in the city’s planning guide, KAMPLAN.

He says a number of proprietors have inquired about creating office space in more suburban areas and the city has always been consistent in their response.

At a council meeting yesterday, Oct. 6, Kwiatkowski recommended an option for public hearing where residents would give input on the increased restaurant seating but not additional office space.

Coun. Tina Lange said in 10 years in her role she has never seen what a proponent wants not go to public hearing, and the rest of city council members agreed.

Both the restaurant capacity and additional office space will be decided by residents at public hearing. A date has not yet been set.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Dana Reynolds at dreynolds@infonews.ca or call 250-819-6089. To contact an editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.