Coun. Corinne Lonsdale says she is sorry she used strong language in a motion asking Tim Hortons to move its drive though further south, but added the mistake was the result of lack of information.During a strategy session on Tuesday (April 8) council created the motion, which noted, "if not acted upon immediately, Council will be forced to take further measures."At the time, Lonsdale discussed revoking business licences and stronger language."I'm concerned that we're being nice and friendly about it," she said. What Lonsdale didn't know was the business had already submitted four designs to change the drive through entrance. Owner Wes Rafuse acknowledges the busy intersection causes traffic problems, however, he said had been waiting since September 2007 for approval on redesigns.In an interview with The Chief Monday (April 14) community development director Mick Gottardi said the Tim Hortons redesign options reviewed by the planning committee last October did not meet criteria, since landscaping buffers and concerns over a nearby water channel remained. Gottardi said he was unsure whether Rafuse or Tim Hortons was made aware of the problems.Planning director Cameron Chalmers who looked at the plans as part of the Technical Planning Committee, said they were generally supported, but added there were a few recommendations and requirements, which were communicated to and discussed with TDL group, which represent Tim Hortons Corporation. "I had not heard from them one way or another about their intentions since then," he said.Rafuse said he was surprised by council's confrontational approach in light of the efforts to improve the troublesome entrance."We're very shocked that it's come up like this at us because the ball's been in their court," he said.Lonsdale agreed the tone was not called for."I am sorry. I would never even have had the discussion around the strength and forcefulness of the second part of the motion had we had complete information."She said it was unfortunate staff had not updated council on the issue. "Instead of that, we attacked our taxpayer," she said.Mayor Ian Sutherland said an email copied to council last fall made note of the plans."I don't think it's fair to make staff the bad guys in this," he said, suggesting council not vote so hastily on motions created mid-meeting. He said when a motion that isn't on the agenda comes up during a meeting, it is often best to send it back to staff for more information.On Tuesday's council meeting (April 15) council rephrased the motion taking out the second, more forceful component, and removing reference to Wendy's. All but Coun. Jeff McKenzie voted in favour of the revised motion. Coun. Greg Gardner was not present.Council approved plans to turn Progress Way into a four-lane road in the 2008 capital budget on Tuesday (April 15). Lonsdale asked that Tim Hortons be encouraged to contribute to project, which is expected to cost $150,000."The only reason that road needs to be widened period is because of Tim Hortons' business," she said.
