Dear Editor,

[Re: Locals Scrutinize Fraser Highway Industrial Rezoning, 91Ô­´´ Advance Times, Feb. 5]
 
It is discouraging to see opposition – complete with makeshift signs – turned out to the information sessions regarding the Township of 91Ô­´´â€™s Fraser Highway employment lands proposal when there is little the Township could do that would be more positively impactful for economic development than this shepherding of 500 acres of largely rural and under-utilized land into new employment lands that support local jobs, manufacturing, employment and opportunity.   

While I do appreciate the concerns of residents who reside near the area, there are plenty of options to mitigate any negative externalities on adjacent properties through thoughtful design and placement of different types of uses. These types of concerns shouldn’t stop us, because it couldn’t be more clear why these employment lands are needed.

I can attest that we already have companies – including 91Ô­´´ businesses – that are forced to either relocate or expand into the Interior, out to Alberta, or concerningly, down to Washington, because of the lack of suitable employment lands in our region.

Employment lands – like what will be created in this area, make up just four per cent of the region geographically today, but generate over 27 per cent of the jobs for locals in 91Ô­´´ and beyond.

Adding 500 acres of new land through the Fraser Highway employment lands proposal would allow even more 91Ô­´´ residents to find family-supporting jobs locally, and would allow our local economy and businesses to expand, and meet the needs of our growing community. 

Particularly at a time when more and more people are seeking out local options for products, it begs the question where they think these local products will be created, manufactured, packaged, stored and shipped from if we don’t create the local lands on which to house these activities!

Kudos to Mayor Woodward, council and staff at the Township for their action on this issue thus far, and let’s find a way to bring these employment lands – and the local opportunities they’ll create – to fruition.

Cory Redekop, Greater 91Ô­´´ Chamber of Commerce CEO