Members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 256 may soon be able to enjoy an alcoholic beverage on an outdoor patio.
Legion officials have applied to the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch for an outdoor licensed patio at its property at 1630 East Wellington Rd. The matter went before Nanaimo city council last week for support, which was given after a short presentation from legion representatives.
Darwyn Henry, legion president, told council the group has a 46.5-square metre patio with cedar fencing and several picnic tables that it would like to have added onto the legion's liquor licence.
He said the legion is not a heavy drinking establishment, but officials want to give members the option of sitting out there with a glass of wine or other alcoholic beverage.
"A lot of us like to be out there in the fresh air," he said.
The patio would be non-smoking, would be closed at 10 p.m. each evening and have an occupancy of about 50 people.
The patio is behind the legion and not visible from Quarterway Elementary School, and of 65 comment sheets delivered to owners and occupants of the properties within 100 metres of the legion, nine were returned, with six in favour and three opposed to the change.
Robert Chow, service officer with the legion, assured council the area would be fully monitored and that the legion is not increasing the physical capabilities of its lounge.