A proposed development at Twin Lakes southwest of Penticton has received third reading at the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen board meeting on March 18. (Google Maps image)

Twin Lakes development passes third reading

Proposal for the area near the Twin Lakes Golf Course would see 36 units built in the first phase

The Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen has given third reading to an amendment that would allow a 230-unit development in Twin Lakes.

If the amendment to the zoning bylaw is adopted it would allow for more than 230 units of houses or condos, however, the regional district will require a water sustainability and availability study to be completed before more than the first 36 can be constructed.

READ ALSO: Water concerns raised at public hearing about Twin Lakes development

READ ALSO: Controversial Twin Lakes development goes to public hearing

The proposal has been in the works for years. Most recently, in February, 2018 the applicant hosted a community open house on the development. A public information meeting was held in June of that year and in August, 2018 the regional district board approved first reading of an amendment bylaw on the proposal.

In August, 2020, an electronic public information meeting was held to provide an overview of proposed changes to the amendment bylaw. An electronic public hearing was held in December, 2020.

Subrina Monteith, director for Electoral Area I, said the proposed development is not right for the Twin Lakes area and is not supported by the community. Twin Lakes is within Electoral Area I, which includes Skaha West, Kaleden and Apex.

“They don’t want to see densification. They don’t want to see condos,” she said. “They’re asking for a natural environment.”

Others on the regional district board were in support of the proposed development.

“We’re getting people away from agriculture land,” said George Bush, director for Electoral Area B which includes Cawston.

During the public hearing in December, 2020, residents raised concerns about the water supply and the impact on the environment if the development proceeds.

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