City’s character under threat from too many highrises

DEAR EDITOR:

Kelowna is blessed with environmental characteristics that are second to none among cities throughout British Columbia, Canada and the world.

With Okanagan Lake at our doorsteps, we enjoy lakeside picnics, swimming, boating or just sitting and admiring the wonderful environment we’re blessed with.

When I read or experience the number of new highrise developments under construction or being approved by planners and city council, I ask whether the important characteristics of our city and its neighbourhoods are being eroded.

I’ve witnessed council meeting where residents and community associations express legitimate concerns on building heights, traffic, shadowing, infrastructure and the environment and are ignored and discounted.

How did we get from mid-rise developments to highrises nearing or exceeding 30 storeys?

Let’s get rid of the Wild West approach to development our city is experiencing. If this mayor and council don’t start listening to residents concerns, perhaps its time to consider getting rid of them as well.

Residents of Kelowna are not opposed to development. However, let’s keep the characteristics of our city and its communities and not overwhelm them.

Larry Kelly, Kelowna