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Organization voices support for development

Group backing Banks Crescent proposal calls for ‘balance’
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A citizens’ organization in Summerland wants to provide balance in the ongoing debate and discussion over a controversial care facility proposal.

Citizens Supporting iCasa, an advocacy group, was formed earlier this month by Summerland residents who welcome and support the proposed iCasa Resort Living project.

The project was presented to the public in November as a 380-unit care facility.

Since that time, the details have changed and the proponents are now talking of a 424-unit development.

Since the proposal was unveiled, another organization, Summerlanders for Sensible Development, has formed to speak out about concerns with the project.

Marie Gallant, a member of Citizens Supporting iCasa, said the newly formed organization is independent of the developer and is not connected to the proposed development.

“We are not in any way, shape or form colluding with the developer,” she said. “This is strictly a citizen group who want to see Summerland grow and thrive.”

The group’s website, at www.summerlandcsi.com, has a link to a letter residents can send to council and municipal staff, stating their support of the proposal.

“We would like to see everyone in support to have the opportunity to voice their opinion,” Gallant said.

Since the proposal was introduced, municipal council and staff have been gathering more information about the proposed development and its effects on the community.

According to the developer, the project has economic benefits for the community.

These include $125 million in capital investment, 200 to 300 local construction and engineering jobs, 75 to 100 permanent jobs when the facility opens, $3 to $4 million in annual sales, $2.3 million in development cost charges, $1 million in infrastructure upgrades and an estimated $400,000 in annual property tax revenue.

While questions have been raised about the effects of the development on the fish hatchery, the increased traffic from this facility, the stability of the slope and other matters, Gallant believes the development would be a benefit to the community.

She added that the voices in favour of this development need to be heard.

“Citizens of Summerland should be allowed to voice their opinions without repercussions,” she said. “It’s important to allow people to participate.”



John Arendt

About the Author: John Arendt

John Arendt has worked as a journalist for more than 30 years. He has a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Journalism degree from Ryerson Polytechnical Institute.
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