Parksville residents will soon see a new commercial Quality Foods sign along the Alberni highway.
During a May 3 council meeting, the director of community planning and building for the City of Parksville, Blaine Russell, advised council of an encroachment request and development variance permit for a freestanding sign on a public boulevard next to 371 Alberni Highway, the Quality Foods location in Parksville.
According to Russell’s report on the variance permit, the sign’s purpose is to advertise multiple commercial tenants within the shopping centre. Since the location of the sign is not on private property, a variance permit is required.
The new sign will be V-shaped, approximately 15 feet high, 12 feet wide and eight feet deep. It will be constructed of predominantly metal and wood decor, with backlit lettering.
As per Russell’s report, with respect to vehicle sightline and utilities, the location was reviewed and accepted by the engineer of record.
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The owner of the sign will be required to maintain liability insurance and provide compensation to the city for the fair market value of the land, as per the encroachment agreement. In his report, Russell stated the 27 square-metre encroachment area appears to have a value of $5,060.75, based on a 2021 land value assessment for 371 Alberni Highway.
During the meeting, Coun. Marilyn Wilson asked if the current Cascadia Liquor sign located on the opposite side of the property (next to Moilliet Street) would remain if the new sign were installed at the boulevard. She also asked if the city could break the agreement, should it be needed it in the future.
Russell confirmed that, to his understanding, the city could end the agreement if it was necessary. He also said since the existing Cascadia Liquor sign is not authorized by the city, it will need to be addressed before issuing the new sign a permit.
After the discussion period, council voted unanimously in favour of allowing the permit and encroachment request.
Notice will be provided by mail, or direct delivery, to owners and tenants of properties located within 50 metres of the proposed location.