Williams Lake City Council once again had a packed meeting regarding statutory immunity for Elks Hall.
Last night played out similarly to the meeting back on March 12th, where community member voiced concerns or support on the potential temporary emergency shelter.
While negative impacts were talked about, Councillor Joan Flaspohler spoke on thinking outside the box to get to a better place.
“If I even at a personal level can help with my background in beautification for this site so it’s easier for those businesses and for the community as a whole, that’s what I would like to do.”
Flaspohler added that a negative perspective doesn’t solve the problem, which she believes is the most critical piece.
Community members weren’t the only ones split on the temporary shelter, as the final decision for the statutory immunity ended in a 4-2 vote in favour of the recommendation.
The two against were Councillor Scott Nelson and Mayor Surinderpal Rathor, with the only Councillor without a vote being Jazmyn Lyons due to conflict of interest.
Rathor’s decision to vote against the recommendation came down to the local business community speaking against the proposed location, but respects the decision made by the majority of council.
He looks forward to working with everyone involved to make sure the issues are addressed.