While the proponent of a revamped garden centre sees the project as a "business incubator," the owners of some nearby stores warn it might put them out of a job.
On Tuesday (Nov. 15), a project to expand the garden centre function at what is now the Village Green Garden Centre to include retail, a deli, a café and a handful of small artisan and business shop fronts, was supported by most of those who spoke at a public hearing on a proposal to rezone the property.
The proposal aims to create a community hub on the 1861 Mamquam Rd. lot, proponent Natalie Pereman said. The parking lot would be doubled and lots of green space would be added, she said. The existing building on the property would be used to sell produce with a strong emphasis on B.C.-sourced goods. Close to 5,000 square feet of the property would be dedicated to a local producer grower, who would sell those vegetables on site, Pereman added.
The businesses included in the proposal are mainly aimed at tourists, she said.
"The proposal will spur economic development by providing jobs," Pereman said.
Daniel Jensen disagrees. Owner of organic produce and speciality groceries store Kitchen Quickies, Jensen said the proposal directly competes with neighbouring businesses. Business owners signed leases on the assumption that zoning in the Garibaldi Highlands would stay as it is, he noted.
"Most of the business are definitely struggling right now," Jensen said.
Gen Medrano, owner of Diamond Head Fish Market, shared similar concerns. The area around the current garden centre is "oversaturated" with small businesses, she said. The proposal is moving too quickly when taking into account the current economic conditions, Medrano added, noting that council needs to keep the existing companies in mind before adding more to the pool.
Sue and Greg Jensen were concerned about the traffic impacts of a more intensive business at that location. The couple, who live on Diamond Head Road, asked that council to put "no parking" signs along the street close to the garden centre.
Squamish resident Heather Dunham, who spoke in support of the rezoning, said she expects this kind of project would increase foot traffic to the lot rather than vehicle traffic.
"I really see this as a huge community project," she said.
Council watchdog Terrill Patterson spoke on behalf of the Village Green Garden Centre operators, who currently rent the property. The business's five full-time and seven part-time employees will be out of jobs if this project goes forward, Patterson said.
"Will the new owner hire the old people?" he asked.
The proposal is set to come before council on Nov. 22 for third reading.
