Editor:
I just read the Stonehurst article and I have to say a definite stench hit my nostrils when I saw that the developer is proposing a number of changes that significantly alters the initial proposal.
Given that developers seem to be tripping over each other to build developments on the Sunshine Coast, I hope that Gibsons council will be firm on what is best for our community. And certainly, community amenities contributions should be high on the list – especially if it goes into the “affordable housing” pot.
After all, is adding another 26, likely high end, possibly seasonally inhabited townhome/condos, really going to help in our housing crises? Are the purchasers likely to be people who will work in our restaurants, drug stores, construction, liquor stores, cafes, food stores, ferries – the list goes on – and all the other businesses that are struggling to get workers?
I have been noticing that in numerous cases the signs of “help wanted” have shifted to “reduced hours” or short notice closures due to lack of staff.
Clearly, available and affordable housing – and especially rental stock – is essential if we want to have a thriving and diverse local community but instead we seem to be getting more and more non-rental development proposals that might benefit the few at the expense of the many.
It is time to send a clear message: Gibsons is open for business but not just any business.
Sincerely,
Alan Sirulnikoff, Gibsons
