Planning commission OKs gazebo for downtown store

Caravan Gallery on First Street has long been known for its unique vibe.

That likely won’t change anytime soon based on action taken last week by the Town Planning Commission.

The downtown retail outlet, which enjoys a loyal customer base drawn to its one-of-a-kind collection of ethnic artifacts, statues of Buddha and other deities, glass artwork, colorful scarves and trend-setting clothing, has received commission approval to install a permanent 12-foot-by-10-foot wood gazebo in its outdoor courtyard, according to Town Assistant Planner Ajah Eills.

“It’s designed to replace an outdoor tent that the store owner typically uses for sales in the summertime,” Eills told the Weekly News.

The gazebo, featuring a steel roof, is to be constructed off-site and represents an allowed use in La Conner’s commercial zone, Town Planner Michael Davolio told planning commissioners during their May 21 public meeting at Maple Hall.

Davolio recommended approval of the project in his written report to the commission.

“The proposed location of the gazebo would not have a negative impact on the main building or on any surrounding property,” said Davolio, who also noted that Caravan Gallery is sited within the Town’s Historic Preservation District.

His recommendation to the commission included five conditions, one of which is that project applicant Linda Banaszak obtain from the town a shoreline exemption permit as the property – on the east side of First Street – is within 200 feet of Swinomish Channel.

Davolio pointed out that the Caravan Gallery property is located within a flood plain, but a floodplain permit is not required due to the size of the gazebo.

He noted that a State Environmental Policy Act determination is not required in this case.