The problem Kalavista residents are facing is not unique in Coldstream. One just has to remember the major confrontations during 2004-2005 regarding the rezoning of Coldstream Meadows properties.
Nearly all of the residents in the neighbourhood were opposing the rezoning yet Council ignored them and proceeded with the rezoning. The expression of NIMBY was often heard to label residents opposing the zoning change.
In fact, a resident even initiated a court action against Council's action. Council vigorously defended its decision in court using taxes from the very residents they wronged and eventually won. It should be considered a hollow victory!
The other flagrant example is the efforts of some of Council attempting to change the status of the Spicer Block to convert it into a sports complex. I am sure many remember the huge fights about that attempt ending up in a referendum. The NIMBY tag was frequently used there as well.
It seems like every time a neighbourhood opposes some development or activity that restrict their rights to enjoy their property the NIMBY label finds its way into the arguments.
We all have the right to enjoy our properties and Councils must ensure that these rights are maintained as much as possible and not eliminated for frivolous reasons. There is an opportunity for taxpayers to ensure that their new Council will protect their rights through an open and democratic Council.
Nearly all of the residents in the neighbourhood were opposing the rezoning yet Council ignored them and proceeded with the rezoning. The expression of NIMBY was often heard to label residents opposing the zoning change.
In fact, a resident even initiated a court action against Council's action. Council vigorously defended its decision in court using taxes from the very residents they wronged and eventually won. It should be considered a hollow victory!
The other flagrant example is the efforts of some of Council attempting to change the status of the Spicer Block to convert it into a sports complex. I am sure many remember the huge fights about that attempt ending up in a referendum. The NIMBY tag was frequently used there as well.
It seems like every time a neighbourhood opposes some development or activity that restrict their rights to enjoy their property the NIMBY label finds its way into the arguments.
We all have the right to enjoy our properties and Councils must ensure that these rights are maintained as much as possible and not eliminated for frivolous reasons. There is an opportunity for taxpayers to ensure that their new Council will protect their rights through an open and democratic Council.
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