Council divided over full service gas stations

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star  Published: January 25, 2012 1:00 AM

The possibility of forcing gas stations to provide full service is fuelling a debate at city hall. Vernon council has deferred a decision on forming a committee to investigate whether gas stations should be legislated to have full service for the handicapped and seniors unable to pump their own gas. “I’m satisfied we don’t have a problem,” said Coun. Brian Quiring after speaking to the owner of one business. The issue arose after Independent Living Vernon expressed concerns that residents with mobility issues are facing challenges getting fuel at self-serve stations. Quiring says many of the self-serve stations have procedures in place to help, including staff taking gas caps off for customers. “You can call a station the day before and make an appointment to have your fuel pumped at the self-serve price,” he said. It was suggested that a bylaw forcing full service would create a financial burden for self-serve stations and create competition for the two full-serve stations in Vernon. “It will impact every fuel service station and I don’t support that,” said Coun. Catherine Lord, adding that motorists with mobility issues can use the two existing stations that provide full service. Quiring’s comments brought a sharp response from Coun. Juliette Cunningham, who pointed out that fuel is sometimes needed at the last minute. “When someone without a disability says all you have to do is call the night before, they (disabled) may have a problem with that,” she said. Because Quiring consulted with a gas station owner, council wants to hear the other viewpoint. “Out of fairness, we should allow Independent Living to comment as to their concerns,” said Coun. Patrick Nicol.