Gimli council passed second and third reading of a new parking bylaw and a fines schedule at its July 9 regular meeting.
The bylaw includes updated enforcement measures to improve traffic flow and the availability of parking.
A range of parking infractions are addressed in the bylaw including parking within 3 metres of a fire hydrant ($100 fine), parking within 9 metres of an intersection or crosswalk ($75), parking in a no parking or temporary suspension zone ($75), parking in an accessible stall without a permit ($150), obstructing traffic, snow-clearing, emergency access ($100), overtime parking in time-limited area ($50), unauthorized trailer parking ($75), and obstruction in lot or approach ($75).
Public feedback from an online parking survey will inform a number of upcoming initiatives, said council’s spokesperson Christine Payne.
The survey received 167 responses. Eighty-four per cent of respondents said they have difficulty finding parking in town in the summer, and council plans to address space issues.
“Council is piloting several initiatives this summer, including overflow parking on 2nd Ave (between Barney Thomas and Keenora), new loading zones near the beach, enhanced signage and promotion of existing lots, pedestrian bump-outs and crosswalks, [and] a new walking route connecting the north beach to Gimli Park,” said Payne. “These efforts will be evaluated with public input to guide long-term solutions.”
Survey respondents indicated they support paid parking for tourists with free or discounted passes for residents. There were suggestions to use parking revenues for infrastructure improvements. There was also opposition due to concerns about enforcement and fairness.
No decision has yet been made by council to consider having tourists pay for parking, said Payne.
“Council has directed administration to study parking challenges and potential solutions, including paid parking in high-demand areas. Public consultation will be part of this process,” she said.
Council is also considering adding more stop signs and speed bumps to help control speeding.
Payne said recent initiatives include a temporary four-way stop at First Ave and Amisk, temporary speed bumps along Gimli Beach Drive, speed-reader boards in Sandy Hook and a review of traffic calming near the daycare on Goldfield Drive.
Other council news:
- Gimli council accepted a bid from Gimli Auto Ltd. to purchase a 2022 RAM 1500 Classic Warlock Crew Cab 4×4 for $41,500 plus taxes. Eleven bids were received, states the RFQ, and Gimli Auto provided the “lowest quote vehicle meeting the less than 50,000 km criteria.”
Payne said the 2022 RAM and another vehicle from Chudd’s Chrysler will replace aging public works fleet vehicles used for maintenance and operations.
- Council will be purchasing uniforms for the Gimli Fire Department. Payne said this is a new initiative.
“The uniforms will standardize formal wear for internal and external functions. Many fire departments use official uniforms for public representation,” she said.
When asked how many uniforms are to be purchased, Payne said “each member” of the department will receive a uniform.
- Council reviewed its bylaw officer’s report for June, noting concerns with the soccer field parking area in the north end of town.
“Concerns include unauthorized overnight parking, lack of signage and congestion during events,” said Payne. “Improvements are being considered to address these issues.”
- Council reviewed a Shell Gas Station Environmental Assessment report on the former Husky gas bar at the corner of Centre Street and Highway 9. The Express asked for details of the report and whether it could get a copy.
“For details or a copy of the assessment, please contact WSP, the consulting firm responsible for the report,” said Payne.
