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Concerns raised over development proposal

We would like to register our opposition to the proposed amendment for the following reasons.

Dear Editor:

Re: Amendment to Community Plan to Bylaw Number 2013-005.

As the owners of one of the properties that will be affected, we would like to register our opposition to the proposed amendment for the following reasons:

1. We moved to Deer Ridge so that we would be closer to nature and have the opportunity to interact with wildlife. While the amendment does propose a small park, this would be on terrain too steep to be useable either by hiking or recreation.

2. The wildlife, from squirrels to deer, would cease to visit and the ensuing influx of pets would make short work of bird populations. Regarding the proposed wildlife corridor, one has to hope that the wildlife will know where it is and use it.

3. The development will probably result in the cutting of a lot of large pine trees that makes the charm and aesthetics of this subdivision.

4. Another feature of Deer Ridge has been its peace and quiet. With a proposed 75-unit subdivision, not only would this be destroyed by the rumbling of trucks and building equipment for an indeterminate number of years, but also eventual residential traffic of up to 150 vehicles.

5. During construction, the existing houses from the corner of Morrow and Prairie Valley to the top of Deer Ridge will likely lose considerable value and not be sellable due to the fact that the narrow roadway will have problems serving existing home owners and large construction and supply vehicles.

6. This area is a known wildfire hazard and with more people it will be even more dangerous.

7. Further, because the area is on a slope, removal of trees to construct roads and perhaps as a fuel modification gesture, along with the disturbance of the land would result in a much higher risk of landslide, especially if the land is cleared but is not built on for a number of years.

8. As Summerlanders, we are concerned about for whom this subdivision is being built. The proposed lot size of only 683 square metres would not be attracting families with children, but more likely those who would want to use Summerland as a bedroom community while they work and shop in larger centres.

9. As owner of a home-based business in Deer Ridge, there is concern about the disruption to traffic which will be caused by the extension of the sewer system from Prairie Valley Road at Darke Road, all the way up to McLarty. An upgrade of this magnitude will require years to complete.

10. The letter of March 12, which was sent only to the owners or tenants-in-occupation of properties which are 30 meters from the proposed development, should have been sent to all the property owners living in the area.

We would ask that Summerland Council think carefully about this high-density change to its community plan. By encouraging development in designated environmental sensitive areas and the ensuing increase in human activity, these areas will be spoiled and unavailable for future generations.

Developing Deer Ridge is pushing the limits of what it means to live, work and be part of this Okanagan gem.

Anita Perry

Andre Fagant

Summerland