Whistler’s Answers: October 27, 1983Whistler’s Answers: October 27, 1983
In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1983. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: A public meeting was planned for October 31, 1983 to discuss a proposal by Stoney’s Restaurant to extend the lounge out under the existing covered walkway and to move the walkway over the planters. Stoney’s, which is the current location of La Bocca, wanted to increase the capacity of their lounge from 22 seats to 65 seats by moving their south wall towards the edge of the walkway. Municipal planners were concerned that this act would create a precedent for other village sites. Design guidelines specified that developers must provide covered walkways within their own property and Stoney’s plans would extend the covered walkway onto property owned by Whistler Land Co. Developments.
Question: Should Stoney’s be allowed to expand its lounge?
Kent Thornton – Bartender – Whistler Village
If there’s room I don’t see why not. I don’t think a precedent will affect the other places in the village. If one store wanted to expand, all the other places in that area would have to be moved out as well.
Veena Goodin – Unemployed – Vancouver
Well, my feeling is yes, if there’s a need. Not to let it happen wouldn’t be quite right. Let it happen, and deal with any problems when they arise. You shouldn’t want to stop progress, that’s very important.
Jim Gravel – Hotel Employee – White Gold
It would be okay for Stoney’s, but everyone else will want to do the same. Every case should be dealt with on its own. With Stoney’s not too many people walk through there in the spring as it is.