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Wasa RV park nearing approval
By Nowell Berg
Despite numerous objections expressed by Wasa property owners at a January public hearing, the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) board of directors Feb. 10 unanimously passed the third readings of amendment Bylaws No. 2755 and 2756. These Wasa OCP amendments will allow for the construction of a 120-unit RV park along Highway 93/95 west of the lake.
Several steps need to be taken by the proponent, Mr. Thomas Kiy, before the RV Park would be allowed to proceed.
First, the proposed bylaw change must pass approval by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) before the RDEK board adopts the bylaw changes. MOTI may require the project to have a Commercial Access permit in place before moving ahead. Also, MOTI may consider reducing the speed limit to 80km/h along the stretch of highway west of the lake.
In the second step, the proponent must register a covenant on the subject property. He has agreed to place restrictions on the property title that stipulate a maximum 120 campsites. Further, any new parcels of land created through sub-division would be a minimum two hectares and the maximum number of parcels would be six.
RDEK planning staff indicate that “these three items are more restrictive than what the proposed C-1 Zone allows for.”
If the RDEK adopts the bylaw amendments, Mr. Kiy would still be required to apply for a RDEK campground permit. If any structures are proposed, then a building permit would also be required.
People who support the campground proposal suggest it will be good for the lake, attracting more people and enhancing the local economy.
Those property owners opposed to the project point to the negative impact 120 RVs, along with 500 people plus boats and ATVs, will have on the lake, groundwater resources and backcountry.
Only the future will tell if Wasa Lake and surrounding environment can sustain this type of commercial development and intense tourist use.
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