We read it’s a ‘myth’ that the Area C official community plan has not been adequately reviewed by the public.
There were two public forums, no newsletters, and little content releases in the seven years. Few go to unadvertised OCP advisory meetings. Did they mention the creation of a Village at Balmoral?
Will it adversely affect businesses in Sorrento? A Village Centre’ at Balmoral is new to the public. Did the OCP content reach the public?
A “Myths and Facts” article by Area C CSRD director Paul Demenok states that “every comment was reviewed and considered.”
These comments are written submission letters compiled into three OCP binders. We found just five letters unenthusiastically agreeing with new medium density. One person wrote strongly worded letters for it. What is your conclusion?
It does not mention the Trans-Canada Highway concerns, so prominent in people’s letters. Many dislike “urban sprawl” clogging the TCH. MOT has put an underpass where the present plan indicated there is a population density need. Major density will be at Balmoral corner where there is no underpass. Did the OCP listen to concerns about a dangerous intersection?
All city planners admit we need our agricultural land. Demenok’s article says that in 2012, “substantial changes” were made “because of your comments” for the “protection of farmland.” Is it then sensible to take a large ALR property out for urban development?
All city planners admit they could use their city centres better. There would be less bussing of children. Seniors would be able to get to services easily.
TRUE Consulting was paid $100,000 and said the town centre should be in Sorrento. Is the OCP listening? The mantra is, ‘It has to go somewhere.’ Is it greed that says we need another urban center? We should keep nature where nature belongs, and enjoy what the government describes a “Supernatural B.C.”
Larry Pilcher
