Thoughts to consider re: Big Pond proposal

The following points are Implicit in a yes vote regarding the proposed Big Pond RV Park:

1. CBRM council is not responsible for health of Lochmore Harbour.

To quote the planning department: “accepting the role of environmental protector is neither fair nor realistic.” In Canada in 2018 all levels of government need to protect the environment.

2. CBRM council is not accepting responsibility to become fully informed of the health hazards to neighbouring properties.

Because there are not that many of us, does this mean that we can be dismissed? What about our basic rights to clean air, clean water and a reasonable expectation of a healthy peaceful environment in rural CB?

3. CBRM council is not responsible to revise its Municipal Planning Strategy to consider what rural Cape Bretoners want our environment to be in 2018.

4. CBRM council is not responsible to communicate with the Mi’kmaq Chiefs of Unima’ki prior to approving this project.

5. CBRM council is not required to critique a business plan prior to approving a zoning change.

The following questions are what CBRM needs to ask of Mr Skidmore:

1. How does he plan to manufacture this sandy beach on the shore of Lochmore Harbour without dumping sand below the high water mark?

2. How does he plan to clear away the eel grass and oyster beds to anchor his water playground?

3. How can he substantiate his claim to provide 20-30 year round jobs?

4. Can he demonstrate actual financial benefits to Big Pond and CBRM?

5. Who are the investors?

6. How much of the $4.5 million that you plan to spend on phase 1 have you raised?

7. How personally financially invested are you?

8. Will Ceilidh on the Lakes be registered with NS Joint Stocks as a limited corporation?

9. Who will assume financial responsibility for any damages caused?

Until Mr Skidmore can demonstrate that he is financially capable of completing phase 1 of this project, the vote needs to be delayed.

CBRM council needs to consider, not only what their responsibility is, but what it should be.

Mayor Clarke, what a wonderful legacy a new Municipal Planning Strategy for CBRM would be! Helen Doherty Big Pond Centre