Dear Editor:
Patricia McClintick's comments on the proposed "Eight-storey edifice" for Ambleside are typical of the senior, NIMBY, do-nothing, change-nothing crowd that has crippled development in West Vancouver for years (Eight-Storey Edifice Will Floor Neighbours, Oct. 31, North Shore News). I sympathize with the West Vancouver municipal councillors who have had to deal with this group.
Ambleside merchants are slowly dying, what with the competition from Park Royal and an older population that doesn't spend money and doesn't support them. Building that edifice and bringing in more residents who will live, walk and spend in the area is the only way to save Ambleside and preserve the charm of the village.
As someone who has recently downsized, I can attest to the dearth of properties that can accommodate the downsizing senior who wants to remain in West Vancouver. This problem is going to become more acute as boomers reach the age where they want to simplify their lives. We need to build more townhomes and condominiums to handle that trend.
Another issue that affects all residents of West Vancouver is taxation. The population of West Vancouver has been almost stagnant for decades. We need denser development to increase our numbers and spread the tax burden over more people.
If not, our taxes will continue to increase with rising operating costs, and the many seniors who are house rich and cash poor will be forced out of their homes prematurely.
Where will they go?
Cliff du Fresne West Vancouver
