I am a cottage owner on…

I am a cottage owner on Winnetka lake. My experience bordering with, and sharing a community with the cooperative up until recent years has always been positive. They have been community-minded, generous and mindful of the natural environment. Even without the specific concerns noted below, it is a loss to see the change in community that has happened already as a result of this proposed severance. It saddens me to submit this comment. However, I believe the application will have negative implications for the surrounding community that should be considered while making a decision.
1. The proposed severance would block access from Winnetka lake road to hiking trails that have been used by community members for over 20 years. Hiking and blueberry picking in the crown land beyond the edge of the proposed severance is a cherished pastime of many cottage owners.  Many community members contribute to their maintenance. Hiking these trails is a valued activity. Many families will have their current access cut off. This would significantly change the land use options for the whole community and limit opportunities for hiking and picking blueberries.
2. The peninsula that is proposed to be split between two private properties has long served as a gathering place for the community — used for picnics, paddling rest stops, and as a destination for young children exploring the lake - it is far enough away to be an adventure and close enough to be safe. The use of the area has recently been discouraged by the applicant which has been a great disappointment to many community members. I have no doubt that severance of this peice of property would result in a complete restriction of access. Private ownership would permit permanent structures on this peninsula, which would change the natural shoreline. Additionally, the proposed division of this small strip of land into two properties (based on a current familial arrangement) is problematic in the long term if conflict arises or either party sells to a non-family member.

While the applicant refers to the provincial policy statement in support of this severance, they do so from a highly individualized perspective. The loss of shared spaces and access routes are not being considered in the application. This application would diminish, not enhance, the collective ‘recreational and leisure enjoyment’ of the land.

I am not sure if it’s appropriate to comment on concerns regarding further subdivision or building at this time. While the application does not specify future subdivision plans, we have heard informally that further development and severances may be considered, and that too is concerning.

Any new development resulting from this severance should be required to have a properly installed septic tank system. I am concerned the lake and surrounding land cannot support additional septic fields without risking environmental degradation. Consideration should also be given to increased traffic on the road.

Lastly, although the application states that the road is maintained seasonally, the applicant has made the individual decision to arrange for plowing the road in winter. This does result in increased wear on the road and a greater environmental footprint during a sensitive season. Future development would further amplify this use as well.

I respectfully request that the planning authorities take these concerns into account when evaluating this application.