Arrowhead RV Park Owners Advocate for Expanded Buffer Zone Against Residential Development

The owners of Arrowhead RV Park in Île-des-Chênes, Lise Durand Bale and Bruce Bale, are advocating for changes to the phase two plans of the Oak River Meadow residential development. They addressed the Ritchot council during a public meeting on May 20 to request the establishment of a buffer zone alongside their property line after previously raising these concerns with the developer without success.

Lise Bale expressed support for responsible growth in the community while emphasizing the potential conflict arising from having contrasting land uses in proximity. She stated, "Our concern is that, without appropriate protections and transition measures, you are placing two very different land uses directly beside each other in a way that creates avoidable long-term conflict."

During the meeting, Brennan Johnson from Landmark Planning and Design, representing Terracon Development, attempted to gain approval for initial road construction for the second phase of the project, which includes plans for 11 single-family homes adjacent to the RV park.

Johnson indicated that while multi-family housing was initially considered, single-family homes were ultimately chosen to minimize the number of residents directly next to the park.

The proposed development includes a 25-foot buffer zone at the rear of the residential properties, which would prohibit outbuildings, combined with a 20-foot house setback to create a total of 45 feet between the homes and the RV park. Meanwhile, the Bales are requesting a 50-foot buffer enhanced with trees and an eight-foot fence to prevent noise and activity complaints from future residents.

A local resident highlighted the importance of creating a public reserve space in the buffer zone for community green space and the benefits of having trees in the area for mental health and wellness. Meanwhile, the developers plan to include approximately 351 new residential lots and significant green space in the second development phase.

Ritchot council members commented that the concerns raised by the Bales will require further evaluation.

Source: moderncampground.com