Why the rush?

To the Editor:

The difficulties that Kings County council has to face in respect to an ever-evolving society makes it challenging to meet the needs of all citizens of the county.

We are fortunate to live in one of the few regions of the province that is experiencing population increase, partly due to its relative location to the capital region and partly due to its amenities and natural beauty and attraction.

An application regarding a potential change in land use zoning for the village of Port Williams has been put forth to county council and this is of concern. Land that is currently designated agricultural would be rezoned as residential.

Land use bylaws were developed and implemented by the county to recognize the growing issue of land development on valuable agricultural soils and other pressures (compatibility, etc.). It is my belief that, as a county, we must honour these bylaws as much as possible when it is feasible to do so. There are extenuating circumstances in some cases, I understand, but these must remain the exception, not the rule.

A secondary planning strategy is currently in progress for the village of Port Williams and it is my strong opinion that council must wait until a report is filed by the committee to the county before any further action can take place that may affect the zoning for the village. Otherwise, what’s the purpose of the committee?

A colleague of mine uses the expression “slow the train down” in our workplace and I believe that is a most apt analogy here as well. Why the rush? It is more important to take time for proper reflection rather than regret a hasty decision.

Please allow for due process that has already been established by the county for the village. The secondary planning strategy must be allowed to be completed before any further action can take place.

A concerned citizen,

Jeff Newbery

Port Williams