We are preparing to send detailed comments to the Islands Trust on the new Draft Trust Policy Statement. Although the draft has some strong points, we are very alarmed about other aspects that make environmental protection just a consideration, not a requirement. We will be posting our comments to our website. When the public comment period begins, we will be asking you, our members and subscribers, to write to the Trust Council. Click HERE for more information on why clearly worded TPS is critical to protecting our islands.
Updates from Trust Islands
Hornby Island needs your help
Friends of the Gulf Islands were alarmed to hear that BC Parks is proceeding with a campsite expansion development in an ecological sensitive wetland forest of the Tribune Bay Provincial Park on Hornby Island. This was a surprise to Hornby Islanders, who were promised a low-impact development. Five acres of wetland, forest ecosystem & habitat for diverse endangered species will be permanently affected. The Friends of Tribune Bay are unwilling to allow this important forest & wetland to be compromised. Please click HERE to sign the petition to protect this important natural area on Hornby Island.
North Pender Approves Concerning Variance
North Pender Local Trust Committee approved a variance for a 11,750-sq.ft. home (4845 sq. ft. below grade) and a 2,000-sq.ft. “cottage” – 270% larger than the maximums allowed by the land use bylaw. The variance was granted because the owner says he will “dialogue” and “consider” pursuing covenants on the remainder of the land to remove the subdivision potential of the property for 18 lots. Concern has been raised because no provision has been made to ensure that this occurs. This appears to be another example of the Islands Trust staff and elected trustees putting the wishes of property owners first without taking the necessary steps to ensure the natural environment and its resources are adequately protected.
Trust Issues
Build-out data needed
Friends has long called for each Trust island to conduct an assessment of carrying capacity, i.e. how many people can live on each island while still protecting natural ecosystems and rural character. A first step is to find out how many households are allowed on each island under its current zoning. We are going to ask all Trust islands to gather this data. If you can help with this request on your island, please write to us at info@friendsofthegulfislands.ca.
Ask Your Green MLA Candidates
If Green Party MLA candidates come to your island, please ask them if they will ask the Minister of Municipal Affairs to require that the Islands Trust adhere to its mandate by prioritizing protecting the natural environment over development. For the past three years, each Minister has refused to do this.