The ongoing controversy surrounding the dispute between a business owner and surrounding residents has reached the point that Moose Jaw Mayor Fraser Tolmie has weighed in to assure citizens the proper procedures are being followed.
The issue comes out of a noise complaint directed toward a local establishment, where residents allege a constant stream of loud music and pounding bass has made their lives unpleasant.
Coun. Dawn Luhning brought forward a notice of motion during the Mar. 11 meeting of city council “that City Administration prepare a report to Executive Committee to re-evaluate the issuance of a Business License for areas of the City where mixed use in the Commercial District and others could be an issue for neighbouring properties.”
Tolmie pointed out in a press release that the matter is currently going through the legal system, but has exposed the fact “that we do not have a current bylaw that addresses activity in mixed-use (business/residential) buildings”.
With the city’s 2017 Downtown Local Area Plan bringing the potential for more residential development in the commercial district, Tolmie said the need for a bylaw to address such issues is more pertinent than ever.
“For our City to grow, and for business owners and residents to co-exist comfortably and with peace of mind, it’s our job to ensure we have clearly defined guidelines in place,” Tolmie said.
“We look forward to City Administration’s report on the proper way to move forward in the best interests of the City of Moose Jaw.”
The report and any potential action will be brought forward to an executive meeting in the near future, with council to finalize any decisions made shortly after.
