Like us on...
Follow us on...
Thursd a y , Ap r i l 2 4 , 2 0 1 4
FERNIE
Serving the South Country, Fernie, Sparwood, Elkford since 1898
FREE
Spring has sprung in Sparwood
PARTY program teaches teens - Page 3 SPARWOOD
Taste of Sparwood Page 2 SOUTH COUNTRY
Wigwam Flats to be protected- Page 4
ARTS
Sherry Benko and Christal Ward served up Easter bouquets and fresh tea from Buds and Blooms at the Taste of Sparwood on Sunday. For the full story and more photos, turn to page 2.
Photo by T. Hynd
Noisy situation as public overflows Council Chambers IDES kids get artsy Page 11
By Tamara Hynd Free Press Staff
SPORTS
he Fernie City Chambers were overflowing as the public came to discuss the issues relating to noise disturbances in the downtown core. Over 60 people filled the Council Chambers with 15 more spilling out into the landing on the morning of April 16.
Roller girls compete in the US - Page 22
T
Elk Valley RCMP Sgt. Will Thien and Liquor Inspector Graeme Anderson from the province's Liquor Control and Licensing branch were present. Twenty-one people ranging from residents to business owners addressed Council. Comments were mixed with support for a vibrant downtown core to include a thriving nightlife to some residents feeling unsafe stating the activities
downtown are completely out of control. Most present were in agreement that whatever the cause may be, the gathering of people in the downtown core after closing hours of establishments is the common cause leading to occurrences of public drunkenness, littering, vandalism, public urination, noise and vomit on the streets and sidewalks.
Mike Delich addressed Council stating he was part of the downtown task force committee formed in 2008. They created a list of tasks recommended to the City which included dealing with street vendors, closing some alleyways, lighting and cameras. He asked for Council to complete the outstanding tasks while they are still in their present term of office which ends in
six months. “Six years later we have the illumines and there's a request for proposal for the cameras,” said Delich. “We need your conviction to complete the matters.” Other speakers pointed out the lack of a public washroom available after 8 pm, a small taxi service and a street vendor with a City permit to serve food beyond 2 am.
Continued on page 4
Now selling building lots www.thecedars.ca For more details contact
TODD FYFE - 250-423-8989 PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION
Toll Free: 1-877-423-2001 www.fernierealestate.com