A skydiving company would like to set up shop at the Salmon Arm airport.
On Monday, Salmon Arm council approved a change to the lease rate for the airport terminal building in preparation for further discussion of the skydiving proposal.
A city staff report notes the lease rate amendment would reflect the fair market value of the office space from $300 to $500 per month as well as the basement lease to $500.
A proposal from North Okanagan Vertical Adventures, which has operated out of the Vernon airport for the past 10 years, states that after site tours and meetings with city staff and the Salmon Arm Economic Development Society, the company selected the Shuswap Regional Airport as the proposed location for its new operation.
“At this time, NOVA is seeking a new location in which to establish a new business entity.”
It states that a key competitive advantage of the Salmon Arm airport is the natural beauty that surrounds it.
“There are many places you can skydive in North America but very few can offer the unique view and climate that is available in the Shuswap.”
The report notes that the company would like to have access in the terminal building to the main counter space for greeting guests and conducting administrative work, to the washrooms for staff and customers, to the basement for preparation and parachute packing, and to the upper observation deck for customers.
It proposes operating seven days per week during daylight hours from April to Oct. 31 annually, which is projected to enable 800 tandem jumps per season. A location for a “drop zone” was not specified in the report.
It said the business would generate tourism advantages for the Shuswap, as well as income to the city.
“The direct income to the city will include fuel purchase, short term-lease income of the terminal building, long-term, permanent-facility land lease and aircraft storage fees.”
The city staff report notes that more information on the proposed two-year lease is expected to be presented at the April 10 council meeting.
