As more businesses speed into the resort this winter, one valuable service has come to a stand still.

After operating for two winter seasons, Sun Peaks Taxi has come to a halt. Sean Large, owner of the cab company, said he has arrived at a crossroads with the enterprise.

“The vehicle has incurred some major repairs,” Large said. “Because of our other business interests we don’t have the time, energy or finances to continue. So we’d rather look at some other options. We would like to sell the lease. It’s a turnkey business and the demand is definitely there for the service.” Rod Gehl, owner of a rental chalet on Burfield Drive, believes the taxi was a valuable asset to Sun Peaks and will be missed by many of his guests this winter.

“Over the number of years that we’ve had our operation running the taxi service has been invaluable,” said Gehl. “We have clients who come back and can’t believe that it’s not running. When it was, the cab was used by my clients all the time.”

The taxi was a popular mode of transport which was not only relied upon by visitors staying at locations outside of the village, but by residents and those spending the season at staff housing or the youth hostel.

“Sure, if there was a cab I would use it,” said Renee Tamlin, who is living at the youth hostel. “I’d use it to go home from work and the bar.”

According to Gehl the taxi service offered a safety net for those wishing to take advantage of an evening out in the village.

“It provided a valuable service around the village when people have been drinking. It’s an alternative to driving and we don’t want to see people drinking and driving here.”

In accordance with Gehl, Marion Wells a visitor to Sun Peaks said she believes this area requires the convenience of a taxi service.

“It’s definitely needed up here, it’s a party atmosphere and you just wouldn’t want to take the chance of driving afterwards,” said Wells. “It’s a service that’s offered everywhere else so why not Sun Peaks?”

Large is hoping to sell the viable operation soon and understands the demand for the cab service in the resort. He said for the right person the business will be very profitable and has much room for growth.

“I would definitely like to see a service of this nature in Sun Peaks,” Large said. “I think it’s a service that most people expect in a resort of this quality, whether it’s a taxi or a shuttle,” he added. “The more the village expands the more the units are going to get pushed further out, so there’s a need for a taxi here.”

suzanne@sunpeaksnews.com

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