The rope course planned for the parking lot at the Squamish Adventure Centre is one step closer to becoming a reality this summer after council endorsed the proposed lease agreement between the District and KristallTurm at its meeting Tuesday night.
Local developer Mario Gomes is behind the all-ages rope course activity structure slated to open in late spring.
For the five-year lease of approximately 6,650 square feet of the parking lot, KristallTurm Ropes Course will pay the District four per cent of annual gross sales with a minimum payment of $16,200 per year. The company will also pay $2,250 upfront toward a sidewalk and installing additional signs at Loggers Lane. For the first three years of the lease, KristallTurm will pay the District $1,000 for additional traffic upgrades required.
Customers of the rope course will have access to the Squamish Adventure Centre public washrooms, according to the lease.
Expansion of the lease area will be considered after the third year of the lease.
Preconditions of the lease include that the company is satisfied it has arranged financing for its proposal.
Only Coun. Susan Chapelle voted against the lease agreement on the grounds the company is not paying “fair market value” for the parking lot space.
On Dec. 20, council directed staff to continue with lease negotiations with KristallTurm in spite of vigorous opposition from Chapelle and widespread opposition by climbers who were concerned about the displacement of parking meant for recreationalists at the site.
In voicing support for the lease agreement, Coun. Karen Elliott said she looked forward to seeing the proposal coming to fruition.
“It will bring some great animation to that area,” she said.
“And I am looking forward to what sort of customization KristallTurm will do for their Squamish installment.”
