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Letter: Heritage Pointe residents concerned about two-tiered driving range

Letters to the editor

Plans to redevelop the Heritage Pointe Golf course driving range are meeting stiff resistance from area residents.

They are very concerned that this redevelopment is much more than a driving range. Plans unveiled in the media include a large bar and restaurant, 40 driving stalls each accommodating up to eight patrons, netting, illuminated targets and music, this will be more of an entertainment centre than driving range. The impact of up to 320 patrons at any one time, consumption of alcohol and increased traffic congestion would be devastating to the community.

In various meetings with local residents Barry Ehlert, Heritage Pointe golf course owner, described his plan to develop the driving range similar to numerous other golf courses; to extend the season and offer a small food and beverage service.

At no time was the elaborate nature of his plan discussed with the surrounding residents. Prior to the rezoning application Ehlert forwarded nearby residents a letter outlining his plan which simply reinforced this was a housekeeping procedure and there was no outline of his real intentions.

Foothills County circulated a notice of application to rezone Nov. 25, 2020, with the matter to go before Council Dec. 16. Again there was no mention of the magnitude of this redevelopment. Council approved First reading of the application.

Two days after this project received approval, the applicant had a major article on the magnitude of this redevelopment plan published in the daily papers and on his website stating he has been working on this concept for several years.

Residents then reached out to County planners and the County councillors for an understanding of the process which was unfolding and options to voice their opposition. The planners were responsive however the response from the elected council was dismal. The community wrote in excess of 75 letters of concerns. A few short telephone conversations were held with council but well short of offering any guidance or support for residents.

Now it appears council added second and third readings to its agenda for Jan 27 meeting.

Residents are very concerned that actions of council are directed at silencing opposition and favouring the applicant.

Wayne Barritt,
president of Ravine Drive condo board

 

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