This written document from the BSRA refers to the Lakeshore Residential zoning as specified in Schedule B – Land Use Plan.

Most of the Lakeshore development began as summer cottages and today seasonal cottages remain; although many have been completely renovated while others have been converted for year-round residential use. Furthermore, almost all new dwellings are erected as secondary homes or full time homes.

In essence, the day of the weekend cottage is quickly becoming a piece of history. Let it be recognized that there is not a density problem and furthermore, the shoreline development has more total properties then the combined wards of Bayfield, Hensall and Zurich. And, as you are aware, the lakeshore is the economic engine, which drives the entire municipality. Boy, talk about area rating!

Any suggestion to zone the lakeshore as “seasonal and recreational” smacks loudly of discrimination when you consider where the majority of Bluewater’s tax dollars are generated. Septic systems, by and large, are more than adequate and if there are any problems, the “new” residents of the shoreline have both the means and the willpower to correct any and all problems. The day is long gone when the weekender ran a pipe to the beach.

Just look at how we have advanced together in the last few years:

• There is a solid Roads Policy that is working.
• There are permanent residents in all 51 subdivisions.
• Municipal water line is in place.
• An overwhelming response to the natural gas line.
• There is year-round garbage collection.

If and when other services come into effect the shoreline residents will deal with them as they did the above…. welcome them with open arms.

We must suggest council look to the future and embrace reality. The vision for the entire shoreline must be as single entity called Lakeshore Residential, without any other distinction.

In closing, when you examine the last few years of building permits you will be hard pressed to find requests for the old traditional cottage. Times are changing…. for the better. We trust council will agree to implement our suggestion immediately so we can continue to move forward together.

The attachment is our suggestion of how the above can be achieved.