Westbank First Nation (WFN) council has approved plans to change the zoning of lot 348-3.

On June 4, council deemed there to be sufficient evidence to support the amendments to the land use and zoning designation of the property, from low-density residential to high-density residential.

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WFN said after reviewing information from contractors and feedback from community members, it found sufficient evidence to support rezoning plans.

鈥淓vidence included engineering, servicing, archaeological and geotechnical reports and a traffic impact study, which was reviewed by BC鈥檚 Ministry of Transportation. A summary of feedback received during the consultation period was included in the final report to council, along with staff鈥檚 recommendation to approve,鈥� WFN communications wrote.

Sonoma Pines residents have expressed opposition to the plans, voicing concerns about increased traffic, noise and issues as the properties are intended for rentals. Residents who purchased their units several years ago claim at the time they were told lot 348-3 was zoned for low density.

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WFN said a roundabout would be put into place to alleviate heavy traffic flow on Sonoma Pines Drive if the development occurs.

鈥淎 roundabout at Sonoma Pines Drive and Carrington Road will be constructed outside of tax revenue. A roundabout is confirmed to provide the highest level of service beyond 2035, as per both WFN鈥檚 commissioned traffic study (2016) and the traffic study completed as part of this rezoning application (2018),鈥� WFN said.

Westbank First Nation say they have not received a development application at this time.

WFN confirmed staff will ensure matters concerning noise, lighting, privacy and buffer zones are considered during and after construction.

Sonoma Pines residents are in the process of speaking with lawyers to figure out the next steps to putting a halt to the proposed plans, a Sonoma Pines community member said.

laryn.gilmour@blackpress.ca
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