The community of Paradise Valley will soon have a new dimension in its rural setting following a District of Squamish council vote Tuesday (Oct. 21). Council approved rezoning to allow the contentious Paradise Trails equestrian residential development to go forward by a margin of 4-2. District staff had recommended rejecting the proposal, citing concerns such as flood hazards and urban sprawl.To many horse enthusiasts speaking at Tuesday's public hearing on the proposal, the Paradise Trails development represents a chance to get a local centre dedicated to their passion. Most of the residents at the hearing supported the project. Sarah Hicks, who said she spoke on behalf of herself and her horse, pointed to five equestrian communities in the province. "These towns and cities realize the revenue potential from people who choose to have horses as part of their lifestyle. Squamish, however, seems to be different. Squamish seems to be hell-bent on making sure that horses disappear from the Squamish way of life for good," Hicks said. Several people voiced concerns about the development, however. There was strong opposition to what was called a suburban project in an urban area, with a key concern for Squamish taxpayers who, it was argued, would end up footing the bill should any future road or other infrastructure improvements or repairs exceeding strata funds. Catherine Jackson, president of the Squamish Environmental Conservation Society, said everyone agreed on the merits of a local equestrian centre. But, she added, this development would be contrary to the community's Smart Growth principles. "To me this is exactly the opposite of what we should be heading for," Jackson said. Both Mayor Ian Sutherland and Coun. Mike Jenson cited the endorsement of Paradise Trails' neighbours as crucial for their support for the development. "We have virtually the entire neighbours speak in favour of the project - that's compelling to me," said Sutherland. Judith Alarie, who has lived in Paradise Valley, Block R, on Cheakamus Road for about 40 years, approved of the development. "My neighbours and I are all for it," she said. "We think it's the perfect use for that land. It's rural, it's eco-friendly and I think it would be very beneficial for that area." Coun. Patricia Heintzman, who also lives in the neighbourhood, was unconvinced. "I've never seen a project come to first and second reading with so many questions. We're basically just being asked to cross our fingers and hope for the best." Coun. Greg Gardner also had some concerns. "It would be cheaper for the taxpayers of Squamish to build a public riding facility." In contrast, Coun. Jeff McKenzie said the development would add "to the diversity of the outdoor recreation offerings that we have. "It's a net positive for the community." The proposed 176-acre project would have up to 82 residential building sites, ranging from half an acre to two acres. Up to 11 acres would be dedicated to an equestrian centre. The project's required rezoning bylaw passed with Gardner and Heitnzman opposed. Coun. Raj Kahlon, who also lives in Paradise Valley and had previously expressed strong support for the project, was absent.However, the six councillors present were unanimous in supporting requirements for suitable public use of the equestrian centre, to guarantee construction of the centre, to finalize the development's amenity package, and to ensure that the development will be strata titled. Heintzman also sought to add a commitment to sustainable building practices.
