EDITOR,
Without prejudice, from one of these guys in Squamish:
I am writing this letter in response to the article in the recent Chief article regarding the future of Garibaldi Springs ("Developer to cut golf course access," Nov. 11). I have always sat on the fence when it comes to politics, but a barbed-wire one!? The threats by the developer to put a barbed-wire fence is nothing short of a bullying and intimidating tactic directly aimed at the council and the people of Squamish (us guys).
The council was correct in putting this proposal on hold as this huge development should go to the people of Squamish for a vote!
Currently people own homes there. They bought homes with the understanding that it was a golf course and would remain one in the future.
The hotel and restaurant were also constructed on the same assumption. These two businesses and the people who use them have suffered because of the closure of the golf course. Squamish prides itself on being the Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada. Well, we are falling short of that when we allow a golf course to become another housing development.
The developer has sweetened the proposal by offering a park on ground he cannot build on because of environmental restrictions, i.e. salmon habitat.
He states that he has maintained the area. Well, just take a look at it, as it has become overgrown and ungroomed, so there has been no maintenance to those grounds at all!
Yes, I believe you when you state that this is "the last straw." But that goes both ways!
I will vote for a council that would not get on their hands and knees to accommodate you, especially after the threats directed at them!
"No more doggie walks, no more kids playing playing in my sandboxes"!
The Squamish area has many trails and walking areas, so please enjoy playing in your very own private sandbox surrounded by barbed wire. Maybe even get Hydro to electrify it as well!
Please keep up the payments of $100K to the district per year for the privilege of having it.
G. Collins
Squamish
