Gallagher Lake residents want improved pedestrian safety in the community. File photo
The future extension of urban services in Gallagher Lake is not sitting well with some residents.
That was reportedly evident at a recent open house at Oliver Alliance Church.
The media was not invited, but a member of the Gallagher Lake Citizens Committee filled the Chronicle in on the discussion.
Thor Manson said the two items that generated the most discussion were Highway 97 safety issues and the possible future extension of urban services (water and sewer) to the east side – Country Pines area.
“I would venture to say that the vast majority of residents/property owners on the east side of the highway are happy with the status quo,” Manson said.
He referred to regularly maintained septic fields and aquifers that show no sign of causing any environmental damage.
Manson said a recent survey indicated that 24 per cent of Country Pines residents would support urban services as demand warrants, but 67 per cent do not support expansion of sewer (based on 46 surveys completed ).
“A main reason so many of us are against the imposition of unneeded urban services is the enormous cost of installation and maintenance,” Manson said.
He noted that the Residential Tenancy Act allows the landlord to pass on a portion of these costs to the owners of the housing units.
Four years ago, the cost of installing a sewer system in Country Pines was well over $1 million, Manson said. This did not include the individual hookup to a main collection system in the mobile home park, which was estimated to cost $11,000 per unit.
“Many of us are also distressed at what would happen to the beautiful Ponderosa pines that represent the character and the uniqueness of Country Pines, Cottonwoods, and the private residences on this side of the highway.”
Area C director Terry Schafer said many residents have critical thoughts about the Official Community Plan being “foisted” upon them.
“Donna Butler from the RDOS, consultant Ed Grifone and I tried to assure everyone that it’s a long-term plan for the developing community that will guide future development in an orderly sustainable fashion.”
Schafer said a meeting with the highways ministry has been arranged to discuss safety concerns.
Other issues addressed at the open house were water quality, public access to Gallagher Lake, and what future development should look like.
A total of 105 surveys were completed by residents of Country Pines, Deer Park, Gallagher Lake village and those who attended an open house this spring.
Seventy-four per cent said they supported the type of housing currently available in the community.
While 33 per cent said they support additional commercial services, 45 per cent said they don’t.
Sixty-two per cent indicated they do not support heavy industrial development in Gallagher Lake. But 73 per cent support the redevelopment of lands for residential purposes.
Thirty-six per cent of respondents said they do not support the expansion of sewer services, while 33 per cent do as demand warrants.
Residents were asked if they support any enhancement to the appeal of “this quaint highway tourist stop.” Sixty-four per cent supported landscaping along Gallagher Lake Frontage Road.
They were also asked if there is a need to add any facilities or amenities as the population grows. Seventy-seven per cent said no because they can “go to other nearby centres.”
Sixty-seven per cent support a pedestrian safety crossing on Highway 97, while 56 per cent want a change in the speed limit.
Fourty per cent of respondents indicated that walking trail connections are a priority in Gallagher Lake.
Speaking of the lake, residents were asked if there is merit in exploring public access to it. Currently, only people who register as campground guests have access to the lake. Fifty-seven per cent do not support public access.
By Lyonel Doherty
