On January 8, the town council will consider permitting for several proposed and/or completed remodeling changes to the McKeown Avenue Plaza. These include the bakery (Ovens of Patagonia,) a new location for KPUP studios, three studio apartments, an acupuncture clinic, a handicap-accessible bathroom, and a youth center.
A great deal of work has been done to repair and redecorate the complex. Owner Bob Ollerton has replaced two-thirds of the structure’s roofing, repainted the exterior, and carved out a space for a small area of landscaping in the courtyard.
At the rear of the courtyard, there is a large interior space that Liliane Papin would like to rent for her Acupuncture Clinic. Several previous locations that she has considered were in residential areas, and were subject to concerns about traffic and parking. This space, however, appears to be well-suited for the clinic, situated as it is in a commercial area with ample parking. Ollerton says that Papin has indicated her readiness to occupy the space as soon as the clinic receives the council’s approval for a use permit.
Ollertin’s project would revitalize the downtown area and expand the availability of both retail and housing rentals. With considerable time and money invested thus far, he is hoping to have the support of town residents at the hearing on January 8, so that his venture to restore the plaza can move forward towards completion. The hearing will be in the town council room, Wednesday, January 8 at 7 p.m.