Editor:

Re: Public safety at risk on Kinchant Street, Feedback, the Observer, Nov. 16.

Since Maeford Place opened a year ago we have been approached by public officials and private citizens to complete this expansion. Maeford Place continues to have a wait list for senior citizens and others who require minimal assistance to enjoy an independent lifestyle.

Maeford Place also volunteered to operate the invaluable Meals on Wheels program in January, 2008 because we have the kitchen facilities and no other community organization came forward.

Our location in North Quesnel is currently zoned RM-3, the highest density residential zoning. Our successful application would allow us to build an addition of equal height to the existing building – one foot higher than current zoning allows.

North Quesnel residents need to be aware multi-family development will continue in this area. Dunrovin Lodge needed to expand to meet the increasing need for seniors’ facilities.

North Quesnel is the most convenient location for this type of facility and tenants and tax dollars support the downtown core. A five-lot parcel of land is now available for sale on McLean Street, directly behind Colin Almond’s home. It will conceivably be developed as multi-family dwellings.

Almond is insistent Maeford Place has increased the traffic flow on Kinchant Street and placed residents at risk. Why has he not voiced his concerns all year?

Kinchant Street and Reid Street are the widest streets in North Quesnel.

School bus traffic is on Callanan Street. Groups of QSS students walking downtown on Kinchant Street during school hours present more of a hazard than vehicular traffic.

Maeford Place tenants and staff have been tolerant and respectful of our North Quesnel neighbours. We have not objected when neighbours – including Almond – repeatedly park commercial and recreational vehicles near our main entrance. We need to share this street in a courteous manner.

When Maeford Place opened, an invitation was extended to North Quesnel Neighbourhood Association to view our facility and meet our tenants. The two residents who have objected to our re-zoning application chose not to attend. The invitation stands.

Allan McDonald

Quesnel Seniors Housing