The Village of Cumberland might allow drive-thu services in particular areas of the highway interchange 鈥� specifically areas four and five of the proposed Trilogy development 鈥� council decided by way of a 3-2 vote Monday.
Council also directed Village staff to discuss the drive-thru issue with municipal and district planners to determine the feasibility of Valley-wide policies, and to prepare an anti-idling draft bylaw.
Coun. Kate Greening does not agree with drive-thrus because she feels they contribute to poor air quality and pollution. She also feels they will worsen the look of the interchange.
"We don't have them and we don't need them," Greening said.
Coun. Gwyn Sproule also "strongly opposes" drive-thru services, which she feels are a thing of the past.
"It does not fit with our image," Sproule said. "I think it's going to take us in the wrong direction."
Council defeated Greening's motion to not allow drive-thrus in Cumberland, which Sproule seconded.
Coun. Leslie Baird likes the safety and convenience that drive-thrus present for highway motorists.
Mayor Fred Bates supports the limited concept of drive-thru services where the 'parent' use is permitted. He feels the associated greenhouse gas issue is overstated, and that litter accumulates whether it comes from a fast food restaurant or a person's home.
The drive-thru issue was discussed at a January town hall meeting, where residents suggested reaching a middle ground while recognizing the negative impacts. Idling engines and emissions contribute to greenhouse gases. On the other hand, drive-thrus are convenient and safe.
Some municipalities have mitigated adverse affects of drive-thrus with setbacks to keep laneways and speaker boxes away from homes.
Comox amended its zoning bylaw to limit drive-thrus and restaurants to their existing locations, prohibiting them from other parcels. Courtenay allows drive-thrus subject to approval through the development permit process.
reporter@comoxvalleyrecord.com
