ALMA – Mapleton council approved a rezoning application to allow an LCBO outlet to operate within a convenience store on Peel Street West here on Oct.8.
Prior to approval of the rezoning request, the store was listed as a C1 building under which the sale of alcohol and bottle return is not permitted.
“It’s our opinion that this is a retail use just like the retail store that is there,” said county planning manager Linda Redmond.
“It’s similar.
“We have no concerns with it at all.”
Though neighbouring business owner Ken Buehler said he does not oppose the rezoning of the convenience store, he raised concern over parking in a letter to council.
“I am concerned about the volume of vehicles that may use our property adjacent to the [store].
“This past summer with the chip wagon operating, there have been many frequent times that access to the bay doors of our building have been blocked by customer vehicles,” Buehler wrote.
Buehler asked whether variety store owner Dhrumin Patel could assure “adequate parking for their customers.”
“We’re going to work with the CIP program to put some more parking spots as in cross lines and make some better signage,” said Patel.
Councillor Michael Martin voiced his support.
“I like it for the exact reasons that Mr. Patel already listed,” he said.
“I think it’s an extra level of service for the town and it will help draw business.”
Trees for Mapleton
Council also approved a funding request from Trees For Mapleton for $943.
Funding will help complete two projects both providing a planting of tree windbreaks in plastic mulch to reduce wind erosion.
