Direct consultation with PIB is necessary

DEAR EDITOR:

A revised proposal for an urban subdivision on the Naramata Bench in Penticton is stimulating discussion and concern. The proposed land use is slated to become “primarily Rural Residential” with the balance identified as “Natural and Conservation.”

Given difficult terrain, plus existing and emerging environmental concerns, legitimate questions are surfacing about the actual picture of any feasible, acceptable development in this area. Also, a complete assessment of the City’s interests including details on water supply, site drainage, yearround emergency access, and resulting future costs to Penticton taxpayers is essential. It’s important, too, to determine the scope of possible future development adjacent to this site, in order to complete feasibility and suitability impact assessments.

Managing use of lands in Natural and Conservation Areas is essential. Known wildlife corridors and habitats which are classified as “environmentally sensitive” require formal protection. The proposed, covenanted backyards may not provide for adequate movement, shelter, and foraging for elk.

Canadian Horizons’ consultant report mentions potential diminishment of the area’s elk herd, and it remains unclear as to whether wildlife and other habitats can be harmonized with residential development in that area. Further review of the actual patterns of wildlife use is needed in order to avoid unintentional adverse impacts, especially to known elk populations in the Spiller Road area.

The importance to the Penticton Indian Band of the elk herd, as well as historic and continuing cultural uses of the land by the Penticton Indian Band cannot be overlooked. It’s important to note there has been scant mention of First Nations concerns, consultation, or any approval from the Penticton Indian Band in the process of completing this revised development application.

Direct consultation with the Penticton Indian Band is necessary, as a good neighbour relationship with the Band is important to the success of both communities.

These are prime topics for consideration in the current public review of the proposed Spiller Road development, especially given the extent of concerns expressed by the public.

Denis O’Gormsn

Penticton