Despite the efforts of area neighbours to stop it, council has allowed a proposed residential development to proceed near Frazer Lake in the Upper Mission.

Emil Anderson Properties and Frazer Lake Developments want to build a 12-lot subdivision at 5081 Killdeer Road. At a June 13 public hearing on the proposal, many homeowners said they were concerned about the potential impact on the lake and surrounding habitat.

鈥淭he key reason for us to oppose the rezoning of this property is the pressure it will put on this already fragile eco-system,鈥� one resident said.

The area is home to many animals including painted turtles, a B.C. blue-listed species which means they are at risk but not endangered. Residents use the land, which is private property, for recreation and trail walking.

Council heard from Emil Anderson and staff that the land and habitat around the lake will be dedicated to and maintained by the city for public use. Access to the lake will also be maintained.

Homeowners also voiced concern about what they saw as a lack of notification about the project and the public hearing. A representative for Emil Anderson said that on April 3, letters were sent to all property owners within 50 metres of the development as required by the city.

Public hearing notices were sent out several weeks in advance and signs were placed at all points of access to the property two weeks prior to the public hearing.

Representatives also met with residents to address their concerns, council heard.

In approving amendments to the Official Community Plan (OCP) to move the project forward, several councillors said they were 鈥榦n the fence鈥� but confident the developers and staff had done their due diligence.

鈥淭his land will be protected for all of you,鈥� Coun. Maxine DeHart told the hearing. 鈥淚 feel once and for all it will be yours.鈥�

Coun. Ron Cannan voted against the amendments. Council did give unanimous support to second and third readings to rezone the property.

Emil Anderson has been developing communities in the area for more than 20 years including the Southridge, South Crest and Stonebridge neighbourhoods.

READ MORE: 鈥楳onster building鈥� too much for 琉璃神社 residents

gary.barnes@kelownacapnews.com
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