The Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board is looking for relief on parking requirements as it prepares for the development of new safe and transition beds at its Warming Centre.
Based on its plans, it should have 22 parking spots, but the DSSAB wants just five.
The DSSAB says because of the use of the building, the extra spots aren’t necessary.
Committee of Adjustment member Barry Jackson worries about setting a precedent.
“The way I feel on it is we’re just taking a substantial drop in allowable parking. It’s not a few spots. It’s not five spots. We’re taking a lot off the table here,” says Jackson.
The committee deferred making a decision but suggested the DDSAB consider nearby off-site parking for the additional sites. Striking a deal with Safeway was thrown out as one of the possibilities.
The DSSAB also has the option of closing the lane at the back of the property which it owns.
Chief Executive Officer Dan McCormick says they will consider their options. It includes seeking a ministerial order if the committee doesn’t allow for the number of parking spaces to be reduced.
“I have to contact the Minister’s office and seek an order to move forward. Otherwise, we can’t make our timelines, and we’re going to lose about $2 million in funding,” says McCormick.
