Dear Editor:

We are writing this letter as a result of the Town of Osoyoos looking at changing the zoning of R1 to include supportive recovery.

First off, we are not NIMBY people. We lost a son to suicide from addiction and mental illness and our daughter was addicted and was successful in becoming drug free by attending a rehab/recovery facility in Nanaimo.

Our sympathies go out to anyone who has dealt with or is dealing with this issue.

While we are very supportive of the need for these recovery facilities, especially in this terrible opioid crisis that is happening, we believe anyone wanting to open a recovery house must be sensitive to the surroundings.

In order for their clients to have a successful outcome, success must also include being sensitive to the neighbouring population.

Allowing changes to R1 must and should be done ensuring that all citizens are brought into the picture.

We have been told by very reliable sources that a recovery house is going to open directly across the street from Goodman Park, Bayview and Lakeshore Drive, should the zoning be changed to include supportive housing.

In order for a client to be successful in becoming drug free, all things must be in order. Location is key, as are good people working with them. An area without distraction, but with serenity and tranquility, is crucial.

Anyone in Osoyoos knows that Goodman Park is a very popular well-used park. The town has done a great job keeping it in good shape. They have provided washrooms, swim grids to protect the public from boats, and also designated a dog swimming area.

Residents and tourists from all over Osoyoos use this park. The beach and swimming area is a great place for children to play and dogs to swim.

It does have its issues such as a lack of parking on most days from May to October, illicit drug use, loitering and even some sleeping in the park at night. It can become a very loud party area, which comes with a park that is so popular.

Traffic at Bayview and Lakeshore Drive is extremely high because of the condos/rentals across the street as well as all along Lakeshore with the hotels and RV parks.

This is not a good area for people who are trying to recover from addiction, as there are many distractions when what they need is calm and serenity.

We live across from the park and the smell of cannabis coming from the park is on a regular basis especially in the warmer months.

The report to council has put restrictions on where a recovery house can be opened.

Why would a very busy high-volume park also not be restricted when they are putting restrictions on schools? Children of all ages play in this park 24/7.

Lyle and Margaret Warmington

Osoyoos, B.C.