Dear Editor:
We, the undersigned, conduct businesses in Summerland’s downtown core.
Businesses require support and growth in order to survive. All of us recognize this and we want it known that we do support growth in Summerland. Retaining and attracting business development to Summerland is an important economic issue.
However, we reject the District of Summerland’s plan to swap 200 acres of premium farmland for hilly, marginal lands.
We oppose the use of prime Agricultural Land Reserve land for growth. We have signed the “Stop the Swap” petition at www.savethesummerlandalr.com.
Many of those who have signed the petition also attended a Family Day rally and some were present at Municipal Hall for the first reading of the bylaw.
We are not activists; we are your neighbours, your friends and your community at large expressing our core values.
We value ALR land and have a responsibility to protect ALR lands for future generations. The risk of losing our food security is too great.
As mayor and council, your primary role is to represent the interests of your community, both today and into the future. We are counting on your ability to listen to all parties concerned.
We are very concerned with the process in which the land swap has been conducted.
Susan Lopatecki, SASS Boutique
Todd Laidlaw, True Grain Bread
Bryn Bentham, Spokes Clinical Naturopathy
Darlene MacPherson, Silver Kettle Antiques and Collectibles
Barrie and Gary Karner, Summerland Animal Clinic
Becky and Ronald Bateman: Giant’s Head Realty
Mike Stohler, Remax Orchard Country
Gillian Stohler, Summergate Winery
Ken Zagrodney, Chiropractor
Sue Daniels, Registered Nutritionist
Ava Hare, Framecraft Gallery
Ron Clavette and Peggy Padden, Reez’s Smoked Meat Diner
James Kidner, Hair by James on Kelly
Barbara Wellborn, Welborn Bodyworks
Denise Deleeuw, Summerland Reflexology and Health Centre
Jean Schilter, Cosmos Hairstyling
Lisa and Andrew Burt, Prairie Valley Lodge
Barb Gillespie, Cherry Tree Quilts
Nancy MacInnes, The Carousel
Andrea Szabo, Giant’s Head Realty
Tony Szabo, Windrosa Farm
Dionne Bakalos and Katerina Bakalos, Summerland Gold and Silver Exchange, Penta Strategic Properties
Mikhaela Bakalos, Stepping Stones Child Care
Tom Johnston, Johnston Goodrich Lawyers
Summerland