Proposed: Commercial Light Industry and Storage Sites at Star Lake

To:  Dale Sobkowich, Head of Commercial Policy, Planning and Programming

CC:  Honorable Brian Pallister, Premier of Manitoba

CC:  Honorable Sarah Guillemard, Minister of Conservation and Climate

To whom it may concern

I have been coming to Star Lake for over 8 years as a relatively new resident. My wife’s parents have had a cabin there for 4 generations. I have enjoyed the overall beauty and tranquility every weekend I visit. As an avid fisherman and outdoorsman, the area has always impressed me in relativity to all the areas of Manitoba I am lucky to frequent.

Recently it has come to our attention that a light industrial development is proposed in an area that has started to revert back to its natural beauty. The area used to be a dump 15 years ago, and the province decided it would be safer for residents if it were moved. This caused less encounters with dangerous animals but also allowed the environment to re-emerge. There seem to be rare types of orchids, frogs, and salamanders which are still considered endangered or protected to thrive and be given a chance to repopulate once again.

The trails and area I’m speaking of are frequently used as hiking trails and reveal to me a new delight every time I walk them. There are also larger animals like deer and grouse which are often spotted enjoying the area. I hope future generations are able to enjoy these species of plants and animals for years to come.

I also hope to point out that if an industrial development were to happen there that the road it happens to be on is the only road in or out to the cabin. This poses a great concern to me should there ever happen to be a fire caused by building. I envision heavy equipment blocking the roads if ever we needed to escape the area in an emergency.

I strongly oppose the building of any development in the area, industrial or otherwise, and I ask you to consider the same position of the hundreds of residents as well.

Thank you

Mike Kostelniak
Block 5, Lot 6, Star Lake