Tracy Hughes Feeling a dose of fatalism
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Updated: October 28, 2009 1:12 AM
From some of my conversations around town, it’s starting to feel like the SmartCentres debate’s over as it only just begins.
SmartCentres is playing things smarter this time. There’s way more public notice, expensive and attractive design drawings, and a concerted public relations plan designed to draw the yea-sayers out of their homes and into the public discourse on the topic. There’s websites and Facebook groups, and a pro-development group sporting buttons on their lapels.
SmartCentres knows what’s at stake here. They’ve made a significant investment in purchasing the land and certainly want to see some return on their investment. Would they try again if this proposal fails? SmartCentres officials won’t answer that question. I’m certain they don’t relish the thought of a round three. My guess... they are not going to fold up and disappear.
Those opposed to the SmartCentres development are continuing to rally their troops, although there is a frustration among some that they are back at it for the second time.
I may well be wrong (it wouldn’t be the first time) but there is a real sense among some residents that despite previous negative public response to the plan, this time, the proposal will roll through council — maybe with an amendment or two.
I say this with a bit of distaste, because I’m one of those somewhat naive souls who likes to believe that our elected officials listen to all the facts and arguments before making up their minds.
I hope, I believe and I’m still going to presume this is the case with Salmon Arm council — I do have every confidence our locally elected officials certainly do not take their duties lightly. In fact, I am sure there will be some sleepless nights for those whose vote on this subject will make an indelible stamp on this community. That being said, my gut tells me this council is primed for an affirmative vote this time round. My best guess is council will vote 6 to 1 in favour of proceeding with the development.
Mayor Marty, Kevin Flynn and Debbie Cannon have already thrown their support behind the previous proposal, and since this one seems to have been made more palatable, with a bit more emphasis on environmental protection for the site, there’s no sign of a vote change there. That means only one more vote is needed to turn the tide from no to go. Couns. Ken Jamieson, Alan Harrison, Chad Eliason and Ivan Idzan are the ones to watch, and while some voted against it before, the developer’s concessions on the site plan may swing the balance. It is, after, all private property and unless some magic millionaire would be willing to pony up millions to buy the land and turn it into a park, development of some sort will take place eventually.
This is certainly when council members earn their undervalued salaries. I’d rather walk through a fire ant nest barefoot than be in their shoes right now.
When the dust from the fill being loaded onto the SmartCentres property settles, my guess is construction crews will be soon to follow. But, the thing about predictions is that they often turn out to be false. We’ll see if my gut has steered me right.
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