Editor:
I consider any non-educational use of this property to be counter to the needs of young families in Canmore, and an assault on the current south Canmore residential and wildlife populations.
This development will represent a loss of public gathering space as these lands have been used for popular events like Highlands games and Canmore Folk festivals. If the development goes ahead, there will be far less parking available for people participating in these public events. The loss of our public use lands will be devastating to those of us who cherish these neighbourhood events.
These lands are also frequently used by wildlife year-round, including the spring calving season.
South Canmore residents are aware of the elk and are careful to avoid them when present. At the current residential density, the elk do not feel stressed or threatened. An increase in population density on the Lawrence Grassi Middle School lands will unduly stress the elk. And on top of that, the elk will lose the land where they regularly graze as they transit.
This development is just a bad idea that earns the promoters short-term gains and is a bad fit.
Jim Pyecroft,
Canmore
