Realtors and developers go hand in hand and have their own agenda — often not in concert with the people who live here in Qualicum Beach.
With the proposed underground coal mine and now two more above ground mining applications, it will become a very important issue.
Once we see high mountains of coal building up on our doorsteps perhaps then we’ll all understand what the future for Qualicum Beach will hold.
The clean and healthy air as we know it will no longer exist, even after the coal mine has closed, likely after 20 years of operation, there will still be, for years to come, an unhealthy environment.
The question now becomes how will the people react? Do they leave the Island? If so, then many houses will become available, likely at affordable prices due to less buyer interest.
Our area will be taken back to a level not acceptable to most of our current residents.
Given this situation, then perhaps any new housing development should be placed on hold. After the coal mines are in operation for two years and the demographics require that new housing development was justified, then restrictions can be lifted.
Max Kellermann
Qualicum Beach
