I am opposed to prime waterfront property being designated from Parks and Recreation to medium density residential, and I do not wish to see the Official Community Plan (OCP) amended to have this happen.
The subject properties are located on South Beach Drive, and are adjacent to the shoreline of Skaha Lake. The OCP was updated in 1993 to include these properties in Parks and Recreation. This change in designation came about from work done by the “Beautification Technical Committee” in 1990.
To date, one property has been purchased. Parkland is funded through a portion of the development cost charge bylaw, and there is a specific Parks Reserve Fund for such purposes, and a portion of casino funds has also been designated for parks funds.
In the 1990s, the council of the day was planning for the acquisition of more parkland on the limited shoreline of Skaha Lake Park. Since our community includes people of all ages, culture and incomes, we need to identify Skaha Lake Park as a prime location in the south of the city, with potential public waterfront as an important addition of parkland.
Today hundreds of people enjoy recreation year round at Skaha Lake Park, as it is a safe and healthy environment. Skaha Lake Park offers spectacular and unique views which provide new and exciting vistas to enjoy the expansive view. Many parks provide viewing stations to enjoy such amazing vistas.
This park is located in a strategic location, and is a hub of the community at the south end of the city. It provides significant benefits for local residents that live in medium to high density areas within approximately a kilometre of the park, including Sandbridge, Skaha Benches, Clarence House, Cherry Place, the new and under construction Regency Southwood Retirement Centre, the new and under construction Fox and Fox 50-unit townhouse complex, The Springs, Caravilla, Veranda Okanagan, Peachwood Court, Tiffany Gardens, Wilson Court, Birch Manor, Village Manor, Parkview Manor, Applewood Court, the Valleyview residents at the top of Crescent Hill, as well as the potential 600 units currently being developed at Skaha Hills.
The motels in the area would certainly benefit if the land was maintained as future Parks and Recreation, and in fact to see this park land base expand in the near future would increase the viability of enhanced tourist services. Both tourists and residents need to know that the total land area including South Beach Drive will continue to be dedicated to parks and recreation, keeping in mind that the positive healthy living philosophy that encourages recreation, especially walking, and cycling is a part of the long term plan.
I look forward to speaking to this matter at the public hearing at 6 p.m. on April 7 at the city council meeting.
Dorothy Tinning
Penticton