There were very few complaints from those who attended a public hearing regarding Peachland’s biggest development project to date.
New Monaco, a multi-use urban development on a 125-acre parcel at the junction of Highway 97 and Highway 97C, is aiming to create a fully sustainable community of more than 5,000 residents, commercial businesses and light industry over the next 15 to 20 years.
Tuesday’s public hearing included a presentation by Mark Holland, New Monaco’s vice president of development, and more than 50 people attended.
“It was very positive from a public input perspective,” said Peachland Mayor Keith Fielding.
Fielding said there were only four or five speakers and a few written submissions; however, the majority of responses showed support for the development.
“They liked the concept. They liked the fact that New Monaco had done a really good job in public consultation prior to the public hearing (and) they like the sustainability aspects of the development,” said Fielding.
One person who is against the project suggested there should be a referendum when Peachland residents go to the polls this November. Another resident was concerned about losing green space to the development.
Fielding said Peachland council will now consider the feedback it received at the public hearing, before it gives third reading to the bylaw.
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure also has to give the green light to a few aspects of the proposed bylaw changes, but Fielding said council isn’t anticipating any problems there.
“I’m personally very pleased to see the result of the public hearing and look forward to (the project) moving ahead.”
wpaterson@kelownacapnews.com
Twitter: @PatersonWade
