Proposed: Commercial Light Industry and Storage Sites at Star Lake
Letters of Opposition sent to Manitoba Parks
Recent unsigned undated letter from Manitoba Conservation and Climate to Star Lake Residents
September 4, 2020
To: Dale Sobkowich, Head of Commercial Policy, Planning and Programing Parks
Cc: Manitoba’s Premier, Brian Pallister
Cc: Sarah Guillemard, Minister of Conservation and Climate
The above referenced letter addresses "Commercial Light Industry and
Storage Sites - South Whiteshell Provincial Park". These do not
currently exist, to my knowledge. My cottage is Lot 6 Block 10 Star
Lake, a short and frequent walk from the area that you are referencing.
Your proposal is very, very upsetting and my many concerns fall into two
categories: 1) the impact that commercializing property so close to my
cottage will have on the quality of my family's cottage life, and 2) the
loss of access to a very special and beautiful piece of parkland.
No mention is made of any review process, and in particular, a review
process that would include the impartial consideration of positions of
all interested parties, including cottagers.
Your letter demonstrates a complete lack of regard for the interests of
Star Lake cottagers and only makes reference to the concerns of West
Hawk Lake business owners and cottagers.
I can't believe that you would even consider this proposal if you walked
the area that you are proposing and visited Star Lake and the Star Lake
cottage community.
I won't list all of my suggestions and concerns at this time and will
save them for a proper review process.
I would however strongly suggest that the department implement a fair
and impartial process to consider this matter if it intends to proceed.
By the way referring to this location as "the old dump" is insensitive,
irresponsible and rude, not unlike referring to a reformed alcoholic as
an "old drunk". Many years ago your department recognized that it was
inappropriate to have a dump this close to cottages. The dump was closed
and a lot of time, energy and money was spent returning the property to
nature. They did a good job, it should not be undone!
William (Bill) Claydon
Block 6 Lot 10 Star Lake
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