Construction hoping to start later this year
Tourism Kelowna's controversial waterfront visitor's centre has secured final approval, at a public hearing Tuesday night.
Mayor Colin Basran says at this week's hearing, negative reaction to Tourism Kelowna's new building wasn't as prevalent as when the site was initially up for re-zoning.
"There were only 11 speakers that spoke in regards to the application before council. And I would say the majority were in favour, and there were a handful opposed. But at the end of the day, council still believes that this is a good project moving forward," he said.
He says that while there are plenty of people who aren't in favour of the project, it's not like this is going to ruin anyone's city.
"This tourism centre does not define our community. It's one project out of hundreds of projects that are taking place in our community right now," he said.
"One project of many programs and things taking place in our community. This one project does not define this council or this community."
And while talking with people who are still opposed to it on Tuesday, Basran says was reminded of a similar situation with a waterfront property years ago.
"I'm not comparing the two at all, but when the Grand Hotel was put forward, there was a lot of opposition. And I'm guessing (it was) probably as passionate as the debate we've seen over the tourist information centre," he said.
"And so now when you look at what has been created over there, I would say most people would look at that and say 'what a great decision.'"
The 3000 square foot building will be one storey tall, and have pathways connecting it to Kerry Park, which is also undergoing a re-design.
Tourism Kelowna says with this approval, they're hoping to break ground on construction later this year.
