2nd no for Fintry Queen

Photo: Wayne Moore - Castanet File Photo

A last ditch effort to find a landing spot for the Fintry Queen in West Kelowna has mostly fallen on deaf ears.

Andy Schwab, who was then the principal owner of the vessel, wrote the city earlier this month, asking that council again consider allowing the vessel to be moored next to the CN Wharf.

The idea was studied, and voted down, back in 2013.

"My opinion hasn't changed in three years," said Coun. Rick de Jong.

"At this point in time, I see a venture that is struggling financially and not something I want to put more staff time and tax dollars into."

Fintry Queen ownership did get some support from two councillors who were not on council during the time of the original investigation and discussion.

Coun. Rosalind Neis asked that the city not dismiss the idea out of hand, but instead, keep the door open, with the understanding the city would put no money into any venture.

She received support from Coun. Rusty Ensign, who said he would be happy to look at any proposal they came up with.

"The Gellatly Bay Master Plan does have a commercial component to it. I could see the Fintry Queen taking the place of the restaurant complex shown on this plan. If it was to work, there is an economic benefit," said Ensign.

"If they can come up with the services and they want to make the investment. The only real obstacle is parking. Without parking, it isn't going to happen anyway."

The idea was voted down.