Construction activity nearly doubled in Coldstream for the month of March (compared to the previous year).
“Spring has sprung, it’s getting busier now,” said Bob Bibby, building official.
For March 2013, a total of 10 permits were issued – worth $2.3 million – compared to only five permits in March 2012 – worth $1.5 million.
It’s a substantial change, considering February’s eight permits issued had a value of only $558,800.
“January/February were probably the slowest in a long time,” said Bibby.
So far this year, the number of homes being built is still slightly down compared to the same period last year.
“The number of housing units in 2013 to date is six compared to eight in 2012,” said Bibby, in his report. “The construction value to date is very close to last year and the number of permits issued to date is about the same.”
Bibby expects April could be a busy month for construction.
“Application activity has been very strong during the month of March and we anticipate April to be fairly strong.”
Festival compromise reached over hours
A compromise has been reached to see the return of an event celebrating local harvest in Lavington extended.
The second annual Community Harvest Festival, Aug. 23-24, was seeking a noise bylaw extension from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Following some concern for respect of neighbouring residents, the District of Coldstream agreed to meet in the middle with an extension to 10 p.m.
“Extending the amplified music to 10 p.m. was a fair compromise,” said Coun. Doug Dirk.
The festival will take place at Lavington Park.
Coun. Richard Enns did not vote in the decision due to a conflict of interest.
