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Quality of life on land, water of prime concern

I agree with the decision to allow another public hearing… allowing this contentious development to receive a fair hearing

I agree with the decision to allow another public hearing for this development proposal, allowing this contentious development to receive a fair hearing.

However the facts remain that the proponent has disregarded the  Official Community Plan adopted in March after eight years of fact-finding scientific research complete with significant input from the community, qualified professionals and the Shuswap Water Action Team (SWAT). Among other things, the developer is asking for an amendment which would waive eight other policies within the OCP. These policies are recommendations by the OCP.

We who live in Blind Bay year-round need development which would benefit and foster a community 12 months of the year. Young working families live here amongst the retirees and other demographics who enjoy the natural space the Shuswap has to offer.

The addition of 19 strata lots on the foreshore, now zoned single family, and the accompanying vehicle and boat traffic amounts to an expansion of a seasonal community which would stretch local infrastructure. Currently we can walk, bike, swim, canoe/kayak and sail with our children quite safely. Our small bay and country road network lends itself to this activity, it is what it is and the capacity is finite without seriously impacting the quality of the environment both on land and water.

The most vocal supporters of the expansion are investors who do not necessarily live here. Let us not forget that this is a multi-million dollar development.

James Roberts