District of 100 Mile House council gave first and second reading to a zoning bylaw amendment in a key step towards a new microbrewery downtown.
The proponent, local businessman Kevin Grinyer, proposes to locate the business in the Gear Garage building on Highway 97 at Second Street, owned by B.M.C. Enterprises Ltd.
In his application, Grinyer notes the craft brewery still requires licensing, but this is dependent on proof of approved zoning for a beer-brewing facility selling less than 15,000 hectolitres.
This would involve a retail store selling craft beer and related products, as well as wholesaling and product tastings, it states.
Pending permits and licencing, the target date to commence business is August.
Supporting arguments in the application include increasing pride in locally-produced Canadian products, more business diversification in the municipality, availability of local beer to serve at liquor-licensed facilities, boosting buy-local initiatives, utilizing an empty building and other potential benefits.
No planned changes to the property are requested.
Council was unanimous in its initial support of the project, and Mayor Mitch Campsall expressed his taste for the idea of a local microbrewery.
"Good on you guys, I think it's great."
District advertising and notification of neighbouring property owners will take place over the next few weeks, with a public hearing then slated for June 9 in council chambers.
Providing all goes well for the applicant, third reading is scheduled to happen at the regular council meeting later that same evening.