Re: What’s the Rush (PNR letters, July 4). Once again a writer who is opposed to any and all development projects in North Saanich has grossly distorted the facts in claiming that councilors Browne, Daly, McBride and Mearns by-passed the OCP and zoning bylaws. Nothing could be further from the truth. All bylaws follow the same legislated path. There are no provisions for shortcuts without invalidating the process. The developments at McDonald Park and Reay Creek, received first and second readings months ago. It is common practice to receive the third reading after the public hearing and such practice is permitted by legislation. The claims made, that the four above mentioned councillors have somehow circumvented process are, frankly, libelous.
Mayor Finall, along with councilors Stock and McMurphy, have consistently voted against residential development and work very hard to be as obstructive as possible to the process, even going so far as lobbying the CRD. Thus, when McMurphy expressed her concern in council over pre-determined voting, many of us chuckled over the pot calling the kettle black.
I must point out the Reay Creek project has been with the district for a decade. The McDonald Park project has been waiting for six years. For comparison, a comprehensive master plan for Royal Bay, with more than 2,000 homes, moved from committee meetings to public hearing and third reading in less than five months.
John Upward
North Saanich