Dear Editor:

Kudos to our worship Mayor Perrino and the entire town council. Their recent actions to amend the OCP took a great deal of courage.

The fact that some individuals with a different viewpoint were downright unruly and rude throughout the process was embarrassing.

I was amazed when there were actual threats made.

That is not a democratic process. We live in a great town in a great nation that allows everyone to speak their mind.

We should strive to keep the discussion at a higher level than it has been throughout this recent process.

There are two sides to every story and we heard some very well thought out explanations on why the changes were needed.

There were several individuals who were closely involved with the development of the OCP who spoke at the public hearing about the fact the OCP was basically a 1996 document and they were instructed to “update” the plan not substantially revise the plan.

Why would the future of the town hinge on an outdated document.

It was also passed by a very slim margin. The OCP is a dynamic document and allows for council to amend it as required based on the town’s goals and vision.

Again, this amendment only allows the developer to undertake a feasibility study to determine if a development makes sense.

It is the first step in a long process to consider infrastructure for roads, sewer, water, electrical, lighting and environmental sensitivities along with many other items.

There are many steps throughout the approval process. It does not guarantee that the developer will proceed.

I’m not sure why people would think our mayor and others are in the pockets of developers.

It was great to hear Ian McIntosh provide real data as to the water situation. It is an issue but let’s make sure we have all of the facts.

All in all Summerland should be proud of our council and the strength they showed in a difficult situation.

My only question is where were all of the folks who obviously want to see good things happen in Summerland.

Let’s not let naysayers show up in greater force and try to dictate the town’s direction. It is up to all of us. Stay involved. It is everyone’s town not just a select few. Let’s put our hands together for a true act of bravery.

Mike McCrady

Summerland