An expanded marina on Mabel Lake could create some benefits and some negatives.
The Regional District of North Okanagan board has given approval in principle to a proposed expansion of boat moorage at Mabel Lake Resort at Kingfisher.
“They’re trying to do something positive and get some issues solved,” said Patrick Nicol, chairperson.
The provincial government recently notified Mabel Lake Resort that its existing dock, which is at least 50 years old, doesn’t meet environmental regulations.
As a result, a process has been initiated for a 380-slip marina that would conform with the rules.
RDNO staff suggest that a new marina could assist with a long-standing community concern.
“There’s a need to do something because of the proliferation of moorage buoys on the lake,” said Rob Smailes, general manager of planning and building, adding the marina would reduce the need for people to park boats on the lake and leave buoys behind.
Director Jackie Pearase, though, believes there is a need for another issue to be considered before construction of a marina took place.
“There is a need for better parking infrastructure in that community because it’s very congested,” she said.
“A bigger marina will exacerbate that situation.”
While RDNO has provided support in principle to the marina concept, it has no role in the process as matters on the lake are a provincial jurisdiction.
“We can’t stop it. They can do whatever they want,” said Pearase.
