The Village by the Sea is considering funding a pilot project that would place temporary restrooms by the sea.

Langley’s Parks and Open Spaces Commission has been researching the cost and location of porta-potties in Seawall Park.

At a city council meeting last week, Councilmember Peter Morton, the liaison for the commission, presented the group’s findings for the proposal.

The proposed experiment would run May through October and cost approximately $1,370. The restrooms would be located in a “secluded” location at the bottom of the stairs leading up to Boy and Dog Park.

Because of the chosen site, the city needs easement access agreements in order to service the restrooms.

A truck would drive down Anthes Avenue to Seawall Park, and then across a small strip of land to the city’s seaside property where the toilets would be located.

Mayor Tim Callison said the city would need to check with four to five property owners to sign easement agreements.

Most of the council was amenable towards moving forward with the project. Councilmember Dominique Emerson, however, expressed concerns about COVID-19 affecting the project and the overall aesthetics of the restrooms, as well as the priority of the project listed in the budget.

Morton assured her the restrooms would be in a discreet location. Money from the city’s general fund would finance the project.

Councilmember Thomas Gill said the toilets would be a good idea for people with limited mobility. Although the city currently has permanent public restrooms located on Anthes Avenue, the steps leading up from Seawall Park to First Street are numerous and can be tiring to climb.

Morton said he would report the council’s sentiments back to the Parks and Open Spaces Commission, which would make an official report about the pilot project.