Editor:
Re: Building heights ‘key to city’s viability,’ Sept. 22.
I was happy to see the height article on the front page. This is an important issue that needs to be revisited.
As a business owner on Johnston Road for the past 15 years, I agree with Mayor Catherine Ferguson that consultant Jay Wollenberg’s report shows no surprise on the necessity of height and density.
Twenty years ago, the uptown business community was relatively vibrant with many little shop owners. I still remember going to Parker Stationary for my office supplies. It was nice. Then, the big-box developments came in and the little guys in town got pushed out.
Frankly, if it weren’t for the previous councils’ bold decisions on growth and change, the only thing missing from Johnston Road would have been the tumbleweeds.
I have been very impressed with the changes since the Bosa towers went up. I am also excited as I see the Avra tower being built. I must say, I am a bit surprised at Coun. Lynne Sinclair’s naive comment that the Bosa development did not have an impact on economic growth. Like Wollenberg says, it creates a playing field, and the field I have experienced thus far is an increased vibrancy uptown. Many more people are walking around, shopping, eating, drinking and looking for services.
I had two people in the same week stop me on the street to ask if there was a good seamstress in town. I happily recommended them to a local woman’s longtime business; I bet it had an impact on her, Lynne.
Anyway, council, be bold and think long-term.
We need density for vibrancy and to continue to stay alive as a city. And for you voters – if a candidate in the next election doesn’t stand for growth and change, do not put an X by their name.
Dr. Jennifer Montgomery, White Rock
• • •
So Jay Wollenberg, of Coriolis Consulting Corp., has presented an unbiased opinion on White Rock building heights, as stated by Mayor Catherine Ferguson, who notes Wollenberg has “no vested interest.”
Should we, as a community, consider destroying many residents’ views of the ocean so that more money can come into White Rock in future building developments? How high does Wollenberg propose we get?
I think this issue has come up about umpteen-million times before in our beautiful neighbourhoods, and it will no doubt rear its ugly head over and over again. And someday, hopefully long after I am gone, we will cede to the will of these “unbiased” folk, who see the potential for profit, if we decide to sell our values in exchange for possible financial gain sometime in the future.
Thank goodness we’re not there yet; White Rock can still afford to choose what we wish to look like and look at, and our views are free for those who can see them.
I hope Wollenberg and the Coriolis Consulting Corp. realize their business speculations are interesting but, at this time, largely unwelcome here.
Mayor Catherine Ferguson is a savvy, confident leader, and she, unlike many, is able to listen to her constituents before making changes that affect us all.
Is anyone else interested in keeping our building heights at their current maximum?
If so, make sure to voice your opinion.
N. Springer, White Rock
