I was impressed by the excellent organization of the Public Open House at Cates Hill Chapel on July 21, where the Economic Development Committee (EDC) introduced its proposed amendments to the Official Community Plan. The EDC, with backing from Council, demonstrated admirable sensitivity in carrying out its mission. Wherever new economic opportunities or revisions to existing wording were proposed, the need to preserve our natural environment was highlighted.
Curiously, it seemed that many came to the meeting prepared to criticize the committee's work, with most commentators displaying a no-change/no-growth bias. Why?
The proposed changes are hardly radical. The current OCP imposes restrictions on opportunities to create new and enhance existing businesses on Bowen. The objective of the EDC's proposed amendments is simply to remove or mitigate these barriers to progress. These are reasonable revisions, aimed at strengthening the potential for gradual growth and long-term stability in our currently sluggish economic environment.
Among the most glaring examples of the need for change is in the current OCP's transportation section, where an objective reads, "to ensure that ferry transportation services DO NOT encourage population growth." Who could possibly dispute that the EDC's proposed revision – "To ensure that ferry transportation accommodates population growth." Does the latter statement not aptly reflects the needs of Bowen residents?
One commentator at the meeting, a former municipal councillor, asked a critical question: "Why are these amendments necessary? What peril do they address?"
The answer is that they address a clear and present peril: economic stagnation and its consequences.
Bowen must take action to avoid the socio-economic and demographic torpor that's draining the vitality of other coastal communities. I commend the EDC and our Council for taking first steps in the right direction and urge other Islanders to support the amendments.
Gayle Stevenson
Bowen Island Improvement Association
