I feel dismayed at the number of people writing letters against the Skaha development plan.
Many of their arguments against are uninformed, or purposely omit the necessary information to make an informed opinion.
For instance, many say we are loosing the splash pad and the greenspace. The current splash pad is outdated and many of the sprayers are not working and damaged (it’s in desperate need of an upgrade). The development group will relocate the splash pad (no cost to taxpayers) to a different location (still in that end of Skaha beach). Also the current concession/washrooms near the splash pad will be relocated (no cost to taxpayers).
The “greenspace” that is being paved over is less than half the 2.5 acres that is being developed (as the rest had been paved by prior developments) and, if the artist drawings are accurate, a comparable space of greenery will be there when it’s completed (with access for the public).
Also, the pond area and a majority of the trees in that area will not be touched.
Many of the people I’ve spoken to who were against the development didn’t have this information, once I shared it with them they changed their mind and are now for development.
Those against the waterslides being built at Skaha are good at sharing their point of view, so it’s up to us to also raise our voices and share how much our community needs this. I encourage all those for the waterslides to share our opposing views by meeting at City Hall on July 20 to show our mayor and council that we support them and the waterslides.
Please check the Educate Encourage Empower Facebook page for details.
Tracy Dodd
Penticton