Hundreds of residents have signed an online petition asking Lake Country council to turn down a zoning amendment that could allow short-term rentals at the Zara at Lakestone development on Benchland Drive.

The change.org petition claims the developer, Calgary-based Dominium, has found a workaround to B.C. government legislation meant to provide needed long-term rental housing in Lake Country.

鈥淏y allowing rentals in Zara as short-term, much needed long term rentals will have been removed from a market in a community already suffering from a shortage,鈥� the petition states.

It also suggests there will be an increase in noise, and parking and safety concerns if the amendment is allowed.

鈥淚t will detrimentally affect the family-friendly neighbourhood character of the residents of Lakestone and surrounding areas. It will also add markedly increased traffic pressure on the OK Centre Road/Glenmore intersection a location which is currently woefully inadequate.鈥�

The zoning amendment, which would add a secondary use as strata hotel/motel, will be considered at a public hearing in council chambers on Nov. 5 (7 p.m.). The petition urges residents to write council opposing the amendment and attend the hearing.

鈥淲e want to save the beautiful family neighbourhood that we have grown to love in a town that is known for its high quality of life and friendly citizens,鈥� the petition adds. 鈥淚f this happens to our neighbourhood where will it happen next?鈥�