Young sailors are closer to having some new digs at the north end of Schwatka Lake.

Council voted 5-1 Monday night to approve a conditional use application for the Yukon Breeze Society to put in a new boat launch at the north end on the lake’s east side.

The group offers several day camps through the summer on the lake (in another area previously). Before it can start working on its plans, it must provide the city with a trail plan, heritage report and remediation plan to get a development permit.

Along with the new dock and a ramp, the group is proposing to place two Sea Can storage units on the site with a connecting roof between them.

The conditions outlined by the city were proposed following a public input session on the application where one resident expressed concerns over the impact the plans could have on the trail in the area, as well as the aesthetics of the Sea Cans.

Other written submissions called for the remediation plan to ensure the site is restored to its previous state once the sailing group is finished with it.

Coun. Betty Irwin provided the lone vote against the conditional use, arguing that the plan for the Chadburn Lake park area should be done first.

“Let’s hold back a bit,” she said, arguing the need to look at the “big picture” first.

While she’s not against the Yukon Breeze group and its plans, she argued approving the conditional use could set a precedent at a time when there is no plan in place to guide the city on the area’s use.

She also noted she’s “not convinced” the plans for the sailing group wouldn’t be intrusive on others visiting the area.

It’s also used by a number of aviation companies in addition to people out walking.

Council members countered Irwin’s statements by arguing the sailing club’s presence would fit in well with the area, providing more outdoor recreational options on the lake.

“I believe it is a compatible use,” said Coun. Jocelyn Curteanu.

She pointed out access to the trail will be maintained and the conditions will help ensure concerns that came up are dealt with.

“It’s not even a done deal,” she said, citing the conditions that would be required of the group before a development permit could be issued.

Coun. Dave Stockdale noted that while he has concerns about development on the lake, it seems to be the way things are progressing, and the sailing group’s activities are an “asset for the community.”

While council discussed the possibility of providing just a one-year term for the group to see how things go, members ultimately decided against it. They noted the situation that could create for the sailing society if it puts work and money into the new dock area only to have to move next year.

Another option would have made the group subject to any changes outlined in the upcoming Chadburn Lake plan, which is expected to be done in the next year.

Coun. John Streicker and Mayor Dan Curtis were the only members to vote in favour of that after city manager Christine Smith confirmed the city has a number of bylaws to deal with any potential issues.

Given the discussion, Stockdale argued the city needs more time to explore the application.

Others disagreed, with Curtis pointing out a public input session was held to get feedback and Coun. Mike Gladish noting the sailing season is close to beginning.

Delaying a decision, he argued, would be a disservice to the group, which is getting ready for the season.

Council – with the exception of Irwin – then voted in favour of approving the conditional use application.