A war of words exploded over the proposed sports fields on Coldstream Ranch lands Monday. Approximately 60 people crammed into Coldstream council chambers, where a clash of opinions sent tempers flaring and put a hold on decision-making for the project. “I don’t want to see a bunch of foreigners coming in here with a bunch of money trying to play ball,” said long-time Coldstream resident John Hegler. Although the proposed fields, on 118 acres of the Aberdeen Road ranch lands (known as the Spicer Block), would benefit Funtastic and the sport of football, it was also pointed out that the space would serve countless other sports and user groups. “You can’t close the door and say nobody else gets to come here because I’m here,” Ron Kirschner, a Coldstream resident, reminded fellow residents claiming ‘not in my backyard.’
With a clear divide in those for and against the project, council agreed to put a hold on a decision to send the proposal to the Agricultural Land Commission to allow for non-farm use. An opportunity for more time and debate has been scheduled during a special public meeting Sept. 11. “I’m not able to give you an honest opinion as to what this community wants,” said Coun. Mary Malerby. More options need to be explored, added Coun. Jim Garlick. He believes one such option is Marshall Fields, which he also says has the potential to be lost as the City of Vernon only leases the land to Greater Vernon Services. “I really think we’re giving them an out here,” said Garlick, demanding answers from Vernon. While Garlick believes Marshall Fields could potentially be developed, the city continues to say that the plans for the space are to keep it as parkland.
But the space at Marshall Fields is not even an option, according to Funtastic Society president Rick Dubois. The footprint of the land is not large enough to accommodate a sports complex with ball fields, a football field and track, as well as green space. Dubois is concerned that this opportunity for such a large piece of land may be lost if it is not acquired soon. Part of the deal with the Coldstream Ranch also includes land along the old Grey Canal for trail use. Jason Gilbert, representing the outdoor sports users group, adds that there has been a long-time need for not just ball fields with the uncertainty of retaining DND land, but additional recreational space. “What’s going to happen to our children and grandchildren who have no place to play, they’ll have some nice farm to look at,” said Gilbert, also the Funtastic executive director.
“As much as it might break your heart please make outdoor recreation a priority.” Before anything is made a priority, Coun. Bill Firman has requested more figures on the project and what it will cost residents. A large portion of the cost is coming from Funtastic, which has committed $300,000 plus a servicing debt of $75,000 per year. Other sports organizations are also coming up with funding and grants. But there is more at stake, says Coldstream Ratepayers’ president Andy Danyliu. “You would bring in all those cars, traffic, lights, stadiums. Have you seriously thought this through? “Don’t be the council that took the rural out of rural living.”
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Slower process allows for input Jul 25 2007 EDITORIAL
With opinions divided and emotions running high, Coldstream council was right to delay a decision on a proposed sports complex on Aberdeen Road. Based on the input provided by residents Monday, it would have been difficult for the politicians to make a decision that was reflective of the broad-based community. As a result, it makes sense for council to reflect on the matter further, including hosting a public meeting Sept. 11. Through that session, hopefully council will get a better feel as to whether a complex should be built there or if it should be preserved as agricultural land. Pressure should also be placed on the Greater Vernon Services Committee to be upfront and indicate why other locations are not suitable. As well, the various sports organizations could use this as an opportunity to inform residents about the need for more facilities.
Another reason for not making a decision now is that it appears like the process was being rushed. The district’s advisory planning committee had not had a chance to review the issue yet, and as part of long-term planning, that should occur. As with any development, there could be implications — both pro and con — on the surrounding area and they should be known ahead of time. But while postponing the matter makes sense, let’s hope council did it for the appropriate reasons and not to avoid any potential conflict. Because in the end, council was elected to make tough decisions no matter who is pleased or upset with the outcome. Once the public input is over and the information has been considered, mayor and council will have to take a stand.
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