To the Editor;
I am writing this letter in response to the letter submitted by Tammie Riddell on March 18th, 2011, regarding Council's intention to amend the Zoning Bylaw no. 2010-06 to rezone vacant land near Lions Park from Community Service District to R-1 Residential.
Although I understand there may be a need in the future for parking, and other 'unexpected' activities, particularly in a growing community, I think it is important to note that the Town does indeed have a long term plan in the form of their Sustainable Community Plan, which was completed last year, and is being implemented as budget and circumstance allows. The fact that Council is in talks with recreation committees indicates to me that Council is moving forward with their plan to involve stakeholders in the decision making, as they committed to do as part of that plan. Council will work with those recreation committees choosing to get involved to develop the best plan possible that will, I am certain, take into consideration the needs for expansion. To me that demonstrates good leadership.
Rezoning that particular area will allow another house to be built at the end of a street, and in a block that is entirely residential already. Developing that area for one house is not horrifically expensive when you consider the tax revenues it will generate and the proximity to other homes. The lot affected, as I understand it, is right next to Tammie's home, and she should understand that servicing that lot is not difficult or any more expensive than it is in the new subdivision. It seems prudent to me that this lot be used for a residence where the Town can collect taxes, rather than have it be set aside and tax exempt, particularly when the vacant land area is relatively small-too small for a ball diamond and without a direct link to existing diamonds or recreational areas. To me the Council decision makes sense when you consider all the facts.
Lorri Solomon
Carlyle, SK
