Despite resistance from a neighbouring drop-in centre, a local downtown spa is now allowed to pour alcoholic drinks for its clients.
Special Beauty Parlor & Day Spa, located downtown at 1180 Third Ave., submitted a liquor licence and rezoning application, to enable the business to serve liquor in conjunction with its spa services.
“It is something that I think will attract more business to the downtown,” says Jacqueline Marion, who’s owned the spa for 20 years.
The spa's application was subject to a formal public hearing at city council's regular meeting on Oct. 15., so council could hear any input from the community.
“With my business being in that location, it’s an asset to the neighbours and all who are around the street because I love my city and I want to bring it back to what it should be – vibrant and busy,” says Marion.
She says she purchased her current building in November and has since been renovating the space.
During her presentation to council, Marion explained liquor service would not be the spa’s primary focus and it wouldn't be served to anyone coming off the street, as it would only be available to customers.
However, Marlene and Ben Spyker, who have operated the New Life Centre since the late 1970s, spoke out against the spa’s application.
New Life is a drop-in centre for underprivileged and homeless people. It provides food, coffee, tea, snacks and clothing for those in need and it’s located next door to the spa.
“I don’t see it as a positive change for the city,” says Marlene, adding she’s concerned about the rezoning because she’s worried future owners would be able to serve liquor at that location.
Ian Wells, general manager of planning and development, explained that anyone who was to purchase the building in the future would have to apply for their own liquor licence, which would have to be approved by the city.
Donald Trudeau, a volunteer at New Life Centre, also voiced his concerns about the centre’s clientele.
“The Life Centre is a place that gives people hope,” says Trudeau. "Do I think there is too much liquor consumed? Yes, I think there is too much liquor consumed.”
Besides the three presenters from New Life, council also received a written response from business owner Ben Levine, who also opposed the liquor licence application because “the neighbourhood already faces enough challenges.”
Wells also noted there has been a drastic decrease in the number of liquor licences in downtown Prince George over the years, citing the closures of the Cadillac Ranch and the Generator as examples.
“I think what we need to do this evening is really assess if what is being proposed will have a negative impact on what you do,” Coun. Murray Krause told the presenters.
He also noted that “if the decision isn’t the way you want it to go, it doesn’t detract from the work you do.”
Coun. Jillian Merrick also thanked the presenters for the work they do in the community before noting “they are in the entertainment district and they’ve had good neighbours in that district for a long time and I think that will continue with this application."
Council voted unanimously to approve the spa's application.
