No to 10-storey tower

The architect for the proposed 10-storey tower Ollala development in Lakeview Heights has clarified the developer’s view of the neighbourhood and new development in a document that paints Lakeview as a poor community languishing without modern developments.

I quote: “Sadly, this community has not evolved, or flourished as it should.” 

This is insulting. If this were so, then why does it have one of the highest average house prices in the Okanagan? The developer and architect should accept that the community has indeed been evolving over the years, and as a result our properties remain desirable. Developers' visions have come and gone.

This developer doesn't understand Lakeview Heights is not the Lower Mainland. Residents choose to purchase and invest their money here because of the community's qualities. 

The architects have not tried to understand our community. They want us to accept their view of what Lakeview Heights should be, irrespective of our opinions, needs or desires. The development will change the open feel of our community and is too much for the old school property.

If we go back five years and look at the services we had before the Lakeview Heights Village shopping centre was reconstructed, it had a baker, deli, pharmacist, grocer, an accountant’s office, restaurant, hairdresser, a seamstress, medical services and apartments. 

Our small businesses have arguably lost to the mayor's “greater good” development justification.  

We have gained two very nice, modern buildings, a pizza place and a liquor store, and we are waiting (and waiting) for the completion of the promises made by the mayor and the developer. So far, this development has brought us nothing but three years of disruption, property damage, an unfinished project and no real improvement in our daily lives.  

I hope the new Village Shopping Centre will one day provide more services to the community – but only economic viability, compatibility and feasibility can bring that. 

The money towards a new firehall is a corrupting gift. The high price? The allowance of the 10-storey residential tower.

“The concept of height should not be looked upon as something negative, oppositional or confrontational. In fact, quite the opposite! It should be celebrated and enjoyed," the developer says. My neighbours do not agree.  

I doubt anyone will ever say, “Wow those nice new 4, 6, 10-storey buildings sure made Lakeview Heights a better place to invest in.”

Sherrie Cannell