A request to rename a portion of Victoria Quay to Veteran’s Way has been curbed with a compromise to place a Legion/Veterans sign on top of the current street sign.
According to a planning department report, the proposed change would directly impact four properties, including the Royal Canadian Legion Alberni Valley Branch 293.
The city has received written concerns from one elderly property owner who has lived on the site for 45 years and would experience stress and financial hardship from the expense of changing one’s mailing address.
“The recommendation is a middle course that allows the property owner who is concerned and stressful about having his address changed to keep his address, but it also allows a sign to be put in place that allows a sign to be put in place that allows the Legion the recognition they’re looking for,” said City Manager Ken Watson.
Councillors Hira Chopra and Wendy Kerr suggested looking into the possibility of having the Legion consider paying some of the costs incurred by the property owners in regards to the street name change.
“I don’t have a problem either way but I think we should talk with them one more time before you pass this motion,” Chopra said.
Solda said the compromise was a great way to mitigate the concerns.
“I’m not going to be responsible for someone’s health regarding the sign,” she said.
The city plans to work with the Legion on signs appearance.
* Niomi Pearson/ is a freelance journalist who formerly lived in Port Alberni