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Post by CRCP on Mar 2, 2007 10:57:01 GMT -5
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Post by John Zeger on Mar 2, 2007 10:59:48 GMT -5
I am heartened by the concern expressed by Councillor Robert Hobson and Mayor Sharon Shepherd for preserving the aesthetics of our valley in their opposition to a new power line extending across Gallagher’s Canyon. At the same time I am puzzled that their aesthetic consciousness is operating on this particular issue but not on the issue of highrises in the downtown and elsewhere in the city.
I am wondering if either had been on Ellis Street between Doyle and Cawston Avenues lately, where once one could enjoy a view of Knox and Black Mountains but now all one can see is a wall of concrete. These views were particularly magnificent from the second floor of the Kelowna Library which was designed with glass on the sides of the building to allow the natural beauty of the landscape in. But now the thoughtful work of the library’s architect has gone for naught as the view of the mountains has been replaced by that of three highrises, The Lofts Downtown, Ellis Court, and the Madison, each of which was given Hobson’s and Shepherd’s assent.
As there seems to be no consistency in their thinking, under what circumstances do Hobson and Shepherd become champions of protecting our natural beauty? Is it only in situations when taking such a position would not interfere with the population growth of the city? For once I would like to hear them say that they will not vote to approve a particular highrise because it will be destroying someone’s view. But I fear that day will never come because our natural beauty isn’t a priority to either one but rather ranks far behind growth, growth, growth.
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