RE: OCP Update 2014
We appreciate the value of an Official Community Plan and the opportunity to participate in its construction. The purpose of this letter is to once again oppose the inclusion of the so-called teacup westerly route as a by-pass option.
This proposal was presented to the general population back in 1996 and was overwhelmingly rejected. The council of the day listened to the objections and values of the residents, and stood by them. The same objections and values still apply today:
- loss of farmland
- interruption of farm operations
- loss of clean air
- negative affect on property values
- most importantly, loss of a chosen lifestyle of approximately fifty families.
The lives of so many people will be forever negatively impacted should you make the wrong decision, and it would be a total disregard of the rights of the taxpayers and residents of Agassiz. Not without great effort, the people have clearly indicated through various forums, council meetings, studies, and petitions that they value the rural country theme and moderate growth, and they value their existing lifestyle.
It is time for council to advise the staff of the desires of the residents and leave this one remaining area of Kent as it is. Support the people who support you.
D.G. Hastie