Irrigation available next Monday
The Oliver Water System is should be up and operating next Monday, just in time for area orchardists, vintners and other agriculture businesses.
Operations director Shawn Goodsell said Monday that contractors are finishing up the concrete work in the project to patch the Gallagher Lake section of the system, which was damaged by a rock slide January 25.
He said town staff hopes to test the system with some water on Wednesday and full irrigation should be available on April 18.
Asked if the date will be in time for the agriculture industry in the valley, water councillor Rich Machial said, “Just.”
There were fears irrigation might be compromised for farms, orchards and vineyards in Oliver, Electoral Area C and the Osoyoos Indian Band.
Higher density OK’d for Meadows Drive
The number of houses permitted in the Meadows Drive residential development was increased to 63 from 51 Monday as council approved smaller lot sizes for the subdivision.
Along with approval of the density increase, several members of council urged the developer to include a public access route from Meadows Drive to the hike and bike trail along the river on the south end of the property.
The development has been before council since last spring. Mayor Ron Hovanes asked developer representative Brad Elenko, “If you get what you need, when are you going to put a shovel in the ground.”
Elenko replied that the developer hopes to start soon.
The density increase will go to a public hearing on April 25.
Belleville offers to build gazebo
A local furniture manufacturer is offering to build the town a gazebo as a way of giving back o the community.
Wayne Belleville of Fine Rustic Furniture told a council committee Monday he would like to build the structure on public land, suggesting either the splash park or Lions Park.
Councillor Petra Veintimilla said the splash park would be a good location because there is little shade in the area for parents.
The cost to the town would likely be small, said Belleville, “I’m sure some local businesses would be willing to donate materials,” he said.
Council referred the idea to staff for further study.