COLD LAKE - A special council meeting on July 16 addressed issues around parking management at Kinosoo Beach, particularly along First Avenue, in Cold Lake.
Concerns were raised about mobile vendors operating without necessary permits and the impact on public safety and access. Council deliberated on extending no-go zones and improving ‘Vendor Alley’ to better manage beach traffic.
‘Vendor Alley’ is located on Kinosoo beach, near the main beach area, often set up along the lakefront or adjacent to the beach park.
CAO Kevin Nagoya began by referencing concerns previously raised by City council regarding mobile vendors at Kinosoo Beach.
"Previous meetings questioned the presence of mobile vendors at Kinosoo Beach, specifically along First Avenue,” he noted.
Nagoya added, "The specific vendor in question did not possess the required mobile vendor license or City approvals."
Highlighting the City's policy on vendor operations, Nagoya said, "Our policy does not allocate specific stalls for mobile vendors. They are required to remove their setups nightly."
Coun. Chris Vining voiced community sentiments about summer congestion, stating,
“My thought for this one is that I think that First Avenue area, right along the beach, it's not really a problem even earlier in the season, but July and August, I think that's the issue. Parking is already really tight along there. So, my thought was if you made First Ave a no-go except for when there's special events during July and August, and then if vendors want to be on the beach they use Vendor Alley. It's pretty simple, right?”
Coun. Vicky Lefebvre supported using Vendor Alley but suggested flexibility for special events. She emphasized the constant busyness of the area, highlighting challenges with parking and accessibility for beachgoers carrying equipment and supplies.
Lefebvre pointed out the importance of facilitating quick access to Kinosoo Beach while ensuring vendors can operate effectively with provided amenities in Vendor Alley.
The discussion broadened to explore creating expanded no-go zones to reduce congestion and improve safety during peak times. Coun. Bill Parker supported the idea, emphasizing the necessity of designating First Avenue as a no-go zone and relocating vendors to Vendor Alley, particularly during the busy months of June, July and August, and possibly into September.
Mayor Craig Copeland proposed reviewing budget allocations to enhance Vendor Alley, aiming to improve conditions for vendors operating there.
Vining proposed an amendment to the mobile vendor policy, making a motion for a designated no-go zone along First Avenue from June to September. The change was approved.
