Email dated September 4, 2020 from Len M, Subject: Committee of the Whole Meeting 2020-09-15 Re: 9 Erskine Lane
Email from Leonard J. Meilleur suggesting that proper sidewalks, linkage to the Galloping Goose Trail, and traffic control systems should be part of the development's infrastructure requirements.
From: Len M Sent: Friday, September 4, 2020 4:21 PM To: Mayor And Council Email mayorandcouncil@viewroyal.ca Subject: Committee of the Whole Meeting 2020-09-15 Re: 9 Erskine Lane
Dearest Mayor and Council:
I am a resident of View Royal and I have been living at the Erskine Lane townhouse complex in View Royal for 13 years. During that time there has been dramatic change in the neighborhood, including the felling of several trees on a nearby Saanich property, the new Eagle Creek Mall, a rezoning for the property at the former Youth Detention Centre, the imposed Transit Station now coming soon and finally two significant projects proposed for our small and narrow street Erskine Lane.
For a few years I have taken an interest in View Royal and participated in a positive way through Council meetings, community forums and neighbourhood committees. I have been vocal but always respectful as I truly believe a person's home is their final frontier, "Castle" sort of speak. Most recently I sat through the lengthy online meeting in which you (Council) refused the By-Law rezoning proposal from the developer for 9 Erskine Lane. I won't repeat your individual comments but suffice to say you found the proposal too much (in terms of impact and stature) for this property. I suggest residents are willing to accept that the land will be developed eventually but with that comes concerns about how and what the developer will be allowed to build. The last proposal seemed to be too much in terms of density and environmental impact, particularly on the old growth trees. I also suggest a proper sidewalk or sidewalks need to be a part of the proposal with proper linkage to the Galloping Goose Trail.
I am of the view that if you don't do it now, in terms of capital infrastructure, it might not get done later. Meaning, we should also request that a proper traffic control system be installed at the intersection. There are varying views on what is needed but I suggest a proper Traffic study and consultative report be done which includes input from the various stakeholders. As for a park, maybe an alternative solution is to request funding from the developer towards some further development of nearby parks, green space already in place. Just my view.
I thank you for the opportunity to address you and will be watching the meeting on-line.
Warmest regards,
Leonard J. Meilleur Unit 44 - 14 Erskine Lane