Editor:
Gibsons and surrounding residents voiced their concerns about the revised official community plan (OCP) on March 10.
The public wants clearly defined rules, especially regarding building height, and the OCP is not providing clarity. Although an ambiguous term was removed from the OCP, it was replaced by equally ambiguous wording. This is not acceptable to concerned citizens.
People do not want building permits alterable on a case-by-case basis; they want easy to understand rules that apply to everyone — with no exceptions.
Many people voiced their concerns about the proposed height of the George Hotel. By the looks on people’s faces, this is a never-ending, contentious issue.
If the OCP’s height restrictions are clearly defined, then this can’t be argued. One issue that was not addressed was noise. Generators make a lot of noise. Big buildings have big generators. These machines run all night and work overtime on hot days to keep the building cool. I don’t think the residential neighbourhoods will sound better with increased generator noise replacing the natural peace and quiet that we enjoy in our harbour and surrounding residential neighbourhoods.
It is apparent that the citizens of Gibsons are not against development and growth, only that the precious and unique waterfront be preserved and retain character and that big business adhere to the rules. So, Town of Gibsons, clarify the OCP height restrictions so that everyone is able to understand and adhere to clearly defined rules.
Barbara Patton, Gibsons
