A paved parking lot may soon be going up in Parkvale.
Red Deer city council gave first reading to a land use bylaw amendment that would pave the way for a parking lot at 4643 50th Street and 4637 50th Street.
A public hearing has been set for March 30st.
Jackpot Casino unsuccessfully submitted an application for a permanent parking lot in September 2013.
Its new application proposes a 10-year temporary parking lot with some minor changes to landscaping. It would boast 41 regular parking spots and two accessible stalls.
Citing concerns that the parking lot does not meet the intent of the low impact commercial district in the land use bylaw and other plans, administration did not recommend approval.
But council reasoned it was important to hear more from the public on both sides of the fence on the issue. The first application did not trigger a public hearing because it was defeated at first reading.
Council voted was 7-2 in support.
Councillors Paul Harris and Tanya Handley were opposed.
Council heard that the casino held an open house on Oct. 29, 2014 with the majority of the patrons in support of the parking lot. The Parkvale Community Association does not support the application.
Handley said it is obvious that patrons who frequent a casino several times a week would be in favour of more parking. She said council should honor the planning documents in place and listen to the residents who live in Parkvale.
Both Councillors Ken Johnston and Lynne Mulder said they would like to hear from those who may be impacted by the parking lot and the applicant in a public setting.
Coun. Dianne Wyntjes said she has seen the applicant has worked with the city to address and measure the parking in the area. She said the community is changing and this is an opportunity to say the city supports downtown businesses.
“It’s a temporary opportunity to use some space,” she said. “(We will hear from) the public. We saw the letters. There are certainly people such as Parkvale Association that has a strong voice who treasures their community. I understand that. I look forward to hearing their remarks.”
The properties are owned by Jackpot Casino Ltd. and the parking lot would be for employees, and casino patrons.
Jackpot Casino had a previous agreement with the Coronation Inn to share its 72-space parking lot. The agreement was terminated when the building was converted to housing for seniors.
crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com