Editor:
The Merriam-Webster definition of listening is to hear something with thoughtful attention; give consideration; to listen to a plea.
The provision of a third reading to the rezoning of 6401 Apple Orchard Road in West Sechelt from Low density (R2) to Residential 4 infill housing (to allow the building of a duplex, or single detached dwelling with a secondary suite) is an example of council not listening. The trust and confidence of taxpayers in West Sechelt is eroding as the mayor and the majority of council continue to focus solely on densification development. Decisions on how neighbourhood “fit” are determined are ambiguous. Conscientious, long term development planning is non-existent, as piecemeal, one-offs, and tweaking the OCP and bylaws are the preferred work practices. Allowing this zoning change would be a betrayal to:
• The residents who bought into the subdivision several years ago expecting they were buying into a single dwelling neighbourhood.
• The current Official Community Plan (OCP), as this densification is not supported no matter how the words are twisted or interpreted.
• Community associations as they did not receive a referral with drawings and specifications with which to enlighten community residents
• The truth. This rezoning will not address the need for affordable housing. Rather, it is most likely a business decision benefitting a developer.
• The taxpayers who provided informative, well-researched presentations and submissions for the Public Hearing. 21 of 24 (88%) of submissions opposed the zoning change.
And finally, this is a betrayal to common sense, as the process is allowed to continue with no preliminary design drawings in place. Granted, provision of these drawings and a $5,000 community amenity contribution are conditions placed on the developer before adoption. Will this really change the outcome?
We expect our elected officials to reflect the wishes of their constituency members for this and other developments. Are you really listening to us?
Catherine Hanson
On behalf of the West Sechelt Community Association (WSCA) Executive
