Dear Editor:
What a wonderful place to live, Summerland! And yet I have discovered a dark, mean and intimidating side of our town that has prompted me to write and voice my concerns.
The iCasa (Banks Crescent) debate has turned ugly with threats, bullying and intimidation by some of our citizens who are against this project. They are spreading misinformation and using fear tactics, and I cannot sit idly by and say nothing.
Some of our businesses have even been told they will be boycotted if they are in favour of this project. Is this how we treat our merchants that are here to help our town grow?
Two young women were canvassing our neighbourhood answering questions and offering discussion on the iCasa project, and they shared with me that they’ve often been met with bad tempers, anger and even threats.
Is this how we treat visitors? Is this how we treat differing opinions?
The iCasa project will provide a facility for our seniors to enjoy the remainder of their lives.
They will be surrounded by in-house health care and recreation amenities without having to go through the trauma of moving as they grow older.
I am one of the silent majority no more. I trust the experts to know what they have been trained to do.
I trust Lark Group to invest their money in a successful project which will reap social and financial benefits for our community.
I trust our mayor and councillors to welcome investment and growth into Summerland, and perform due diligence before moving forward with a project.
I do not trust a group of people who continue to stifle any form of progress or growth for Summerland, and threaten those with opposing views.
How is the district going to improve or upgrade the pool, the ice rink, the roads, the utilities without increased population and businesses?
Instead of “Say No Summerland” let’s try “Welcome to Summerland.”
Linda Curle
Summerland