Monday night’s council meeting led to a whopper of a decision as members voted to move a bylaw that could potentially ban drive-thru businesses in Kimberley.
The bylaw, Amendment No. 179, 2025 to City of Kimberley Zoning Bylaw No. 1850, 1994, would see a blanket prohibition on future drive-thru services and the sale of petroleum-derived fuels for refuelling vehicles.
Mayor Don McCormick says blanket bans raise concerns for economic growth in Kimberley.
“When we’re looking to move the needle with respect to diversification of our tax base, commercial building is the way we’re going to do that,” said McCormick.
“My concern is twofold: the ability of our existing taxpayers to shoulder the burden and, more importantly, the message we are delivering to the investment community. Those looking to invest in Kimberley, both commercial and otherwise, will be asking whether or not we’re open for business. If we start bringing bans in, we’re going to deliver the wrong message.”
However, Council Member Sue Cairns says the ban would not necessarily prohibit large businesses from establishing in Kimberley.
“Corporate chains can come, McDonald’s, Tim Hortons and others can set up in our commercial zones. McDonald’s could set up in Maysville commercial or any number of locations around town, including the Platzl,” said Cairns.
“We all want economic development, the difference is that those of us who voted to not create zoning explicitly for drive-thrus want economic development that beings long-term benefit here.”
Council Member Sandra Roberts feels a ban would take Kimberley in the wrong direction.
“If I look at a city’s policy and I’m looking at developing something that’s already banned, I’m not going to spend my time and money there, I’m going to the next town,” said Roberts.
“Every economic principal will tell you that you can’t stay the same, you have to either progress and move forward, or die. If we decide that we’re going to start banning and prohibiting things, we’re going to be taking steps backwards.”
The controversial bylaw amendment will move into first reading, where more discussion and debate will come before a final decision is made.
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