I grew up in Wasaga Beach …

I grew up in Wasaga Beach (since 1988) and currently live nearby in Springwater Township. As a former resident, Wasaga Beach has lacked businesses that support year-round residents. The issue with developing Beach Area 1 is that this location doesn't support year-round residents because it is hard to access due to traffic congestion and typically isn't a regular destination for residents. The development of the Stonebridge area and around the Superstore as community hubs is much more beneficial for residents because of easier access. Of course, having more restaurants and shops down at the main beach would be nice, but development of the current area already managed by the Town would be sufficient. Any additional development, including condos and hotels, would cause a huge amount of congestion in the summer and would further deter residents from going to this area. Also, this area is only heavily visited from the May long weekend until Labour day, and will sit empty for 8 months regardless of how many hotels and condos are built. It has always been a challenge for businesses to stay open year-round in Wasaga Beach. I am also extremely concerned that the transferring of public park land to the municipality (and the potential for a future sell-off to private owners) sets a precedent for the future privatization of public park land. Ontario Parks land belongs to every resident of Ontario and therefore every resident deserves a say. Finally, the endangered Piping Plovers and the many other sensitive dune species are part of a rare and unique ecosystem. Protecting these ecosystems should be our highest priority and should be prioritized in all future planning.