Correspondence - Dallas and Florence Raines re: Lion’s Cove

Subject: Lion’s Cove

It has recently come to our attention that a small group of residents has initiated a motion to remove VIHA Assisted Living services from within the Lion’s Cove community. Although we are unclear as to the motives of these few individuals, it appears that their goal is to petition for consideration that these VIHA services may not be in compliance with local zoning ordinances.

As this matter is being reviewed, we implore you and council to consider the following:

1. The suites that are authorized, and receiving, VIHA services at this facility is relatively few, only 11 in a complex with over 60 units.
2. Many of the suite owners residing at Lion’s Cove actually benefit from the dining room services as well as support from the Beacon Home Support Services, and various volunteer recreational activities which could cease if VIHA assisted units were removed.
3. The eviction of assisted living residents would impose severe financial, physical and emotional hardships on some of the most vulnerable and powerless individuals. The loss of this supportive community, including many long-term friendships, could cause irreparable harm to many of these seniors.
4. Evicting these supported individuals would, undoubtedly, impose additional housing and service demands on a community already challenged with shortages and wait-lists.
5. Finally, the VIHA-supported units were in place long before most, if not all, of these objectors were residents of this facility, and, for over 12 years has not been regarded as a problem for anyone – until now!

As frequent volunteers at Lion’s Cove, it is apparent to us that this vitally beneficial social environment would be irreparably harmed by the loss of this assisted living community. In summary, we strongly feel that the actions of a few people to evict these needy individuals from their long-established residences, is selfish and heartless, and does not represent the view of the majority of owners. Therefore, we respectfully request that every effort be made by View Royal authorities to quash this request and preserve the status quo.

Thank you. Your consideration is appreciated

Dallas and Florence Raines