Nanaimo residents have until Nov. 3 to register their opposition to borrowing $48.5 million for the first phase of a new operations centre for the city, or it will go ahead.
The plan is to consolidate the city’s public works and parks operations in a project that’s expected to be completed in four phases over several years.
The first stage of the plan includes:
• A $40-million fleet maintenance facility, a truck wash-and-dump facility, and site servicing at 2020 Labieux Rd.
• $4.5 million to install storm-water-management facilities at 2300 Bowen Rd. to handle storm water from Labieux Road.
• $1.25 million to retrofit existing fire-training apparatus at 2020 Labieux Rd. to help utilize that site more efficiently
• $2.75 million to build a multi-use pathway at 2300 Bowen Rd.
Under the alternative approval process, Nanaimo electors can vote against the borrowing bylaw which would allow the city to obtain the funds.
If 10 per cent or more vote against borrowing then the Nanaimo council would have to revisit its proposal.
Special forms for electors are available through legislative services at Nanaimo City Hall, 455 Wallace St. They can also be printed off the city’s website or residents can call city hall at 250-755-4405.
All forms require an original signature.
Forms may be submitted in person or by mail to city hall by 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 3. Postmarks will not be accepted as the date of submission. The city says it is not accepting forms via fax or email.
