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15th St. green space a possibility again

Mar 19, 2011 | 7:16 AM

A park on 15th St. E. may once more be a possibility.

Mayor Jim Scarrow had called for an area to the east of Cornerstone on 15th St. E. to be turned into a green space, but city council had voted it down at a previous meeting.

Scarrow didn’t accept the outcome and, citing the absence of two councillors, promised to bring it up at a later date.

On Monday, it was once again before council and this time to much more positive reception.

“I would encourage council to support to the motion for reconsideration in order that we can bring it to the public in regards to creation of a green zone leading from a business district, which is quite extensive and then transform it into the residential area,” said Scarrow.

Coun. Zurakowski seconded the mayor’s motion. He said it was fair because ultimately, the public would decide if the area was a good place for a park or green zone.

“The people will come and give their thoughts on both side of the issue and before I make up my mind I think it’s important the public has their say,” he said.

The motion for a park had initially been voted against, with councillors Charlene Miller and Lee Atkinson both saying the area should be kept as commercial land and as a source of tax revenue.

The land is question is a thin strip of land directly across from the main SIAST Woodland Campus building. It is zoned commercial but is not immediately adjacent to current construction in Cornerstone.

In the end, the motion passed with councillors Miller, Atkinson and Cheryl Ring opposing.

A public hearing will be scheduled.

adesouza@panow.com