Editor: Banff’s population problem just got more interesting. Based on the 2014 municipal census of 8,421 permanent residents, and growth in town since then, we thought the federal census results released last week would more accurately reflect the municipal ones, and show that Banff’s population had ballooned past the management plan’s target of 8,000 permanent residents.
However, the federal count was 7,851, which still means we’re sitting at 98 per cent capacity. Although we don’t know why there is such a big discrepancy between these two government-authorized censuses, we know now that one more development approval could tip us over the edge. For example, the much-desired though contentious Deer Lane housing project, owned and promoted by the Town, would house over 250 residents and burst Banff’s bubble.
The moments before a balloon bursts are always the most tense, as you try to guess how much more pressure it can take. Here in Banff, we could see a battle to rival Montagues versus Capulets, or the Hatfields and McCoys, as our own local families are pitted against each other.
Who will get their hands on the next hotel expansion? Will we sacrifice housing to allow another restaurant, another hotel? Will the Town sacrifice our vibrant community to appease developers? Will Parks Canada hand out permits to businesses outside town, thereby adding staff housing pressure in the town, and effectively pitting Mayor Sorensen against Superintendent McDonough?
Many local businesses have expansion plans on the books: the Scurfield-owned Sunshine Village; the Pauw’s Caribou Properties and others. With so little to go around, who gets the last piece of the pie?
Banff is a small community and we all share a love of our town and park. We’re privileged to live and work here. It’s important to keep things civil when politics come into play.
We also have to abide by the law, which clearly states that development must be limited. After 15 months in office, it is time for Minister Catherine McKenna to show her leadership and provide direction.
Peter J. Poole,
Banff
