Update: The MSTW Board met on April 21. The proposal to redesignate the area north of Lake Minnewasta for residential development has been defeated. This means that any plans for future development in this area would again have to go through the public hearing process. The MSTW Board Members raised concerns over proximity to the lake, bank stability, and maintaining green space.
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Area residents value their greenspace. In fact, we are troubled when our greenspace becomes threatened. We feel as if the bulldozer will be taking away part of our backyard. These few untouched areas are what make Morden unique. In the case of the proposed development on the north shore of Lake Minnewasta, public opinion is very decided and is expressing loud and clear that this area must remain untouched. Considering that the proposed condo site is still owned by the town and that the MSTW Development Plan does not allow for this land to be used in the proposed manner, it would seem like a reasonable request that this land be left alone. Have times changes so much since the Development Plan was created only a few years ago that it no longer applies?
Manitoba Department of Local Government has reviewed and circulated the proposed redesignation of the area shown above. Provincial Planning Services and Community Planning Services have objected, citing that by-law 1-10 is counter to the MSTW Development Plan. Manitoba Water Stewardship has expressed concern as Lake Minnewasta is designated as vulnerable under the Water Protection Act. The Nutrient Management Regulation identifies a mandatory buffer zone of 30-35m from the top of the outmost bank (Section 3(3)).
The citizens that are in opposition to this plan are not anti-development. We realize that the town will continue to expand. However, we feel that the town needs to respect sensitive areas and the importance public space. Consider that this would open the floodgates to more development around the lake. While one housing unit may have minimal impact, a shoreline cluttered with condos, homes, and cottages would create a new set of problems. There are many reasons to preserve the land near the lake. We urge Council to compare those reasons with the need for condominiums on the shores of Lake Minnewasta.
I just send an email to some councilors and the mayor objecting to the development. I would urge anyone to go to the town of website and email our coucilors and mayor.
Hank
By: Sally on March 11, 2010
at 4:51 pm
I would doubt that this is what Dr. Colert had in mind for the land and the lake. I will be quite surprised if this ever flies!
By: Lorenzo on March 15, 2010
at 9:08 pm
Please, lets save a little piece of paradise, the spiritual experience you receive walking around the lake trail and fishing are priceless!!!!
By: kelly Hiebert on March 20, 2010
at 8:47 am
My dog is going to be very angry with with the developers should this proposal go through. That open space is where he runs….he and I both enjoy the lake on an almost daily basis. What is it going to take for this town to elect some officials with the gall to reject money, and actually have a concern for the residents well-being?
By: Brent Krause on March 22, 2010
at 10:25 pm
i think it is too close to the edge, the riparian zone should come on both sides of the edge of the embankment then the buffer zone. That would be safer in terms of erosion and building stability and leave a large enough area around that people could enjoy trails etc. also there should be a fence between the buffer and the development land to discourage trespassing and vandals.
By: Dudley on March 23, 2010
at 8:22 am
I can’t believe this is even a consideration.
I walk my dog on the old boat dock road and along the trail at least twice a week. It is so peaceful and beautiful. It is such a calming experience as you look over the lake and marsh area with the only sound being the birds and the wind.
Leave this area alone, so all residents can enjoy one of the best attractions in Morden!
Condos for a few versus a peaceful piece of undisturbed nature for all to enjoy. Let’s make sure this doesn’t happen fellow Mordenites.
By: Val on March 24, 2010
at 2:40 pm
I attended the MSTW meeting tonight and was impressed with the discussion that took place between board members. It was said that this is too important a decision to make without having all the information…and so they are going to work on getting imformed…which includes a walk of the land being discussed.
Someone today said I hope we can make a difference…I think we have so far.
By: Sally on March 25, 2010
at 12:11 am
As I understand it, the intentions of this website is to provide unbiased information. The fact that most commentators are voicing concerns/opposition to the potential development of this area around the lake reflects the concerns of members of the community. The commentary is open to anybody – both people who favour development of this site, and those opposed. Based upon website feedback, Morden Times newspaper articles, editorials and discussion there is a significant number of people who are very concerned about the loss of this area to development – not for selfish reasons – but rather because of loss of habitat, water quality, environmental health, the wellness and quality of life of citizens. The issue is not that a developer has proposed a residential development to the town and MSTW – the developer is certainly entitled to do so, and the town and MSTW is required to consider the proposal. From a business perspective – talk about a great site! The issue is that this land is now public land that was essentially donated by Dr. Colert (for $1). Public riperian land that supports an abundance of wildlife (aquatic and land loving), trees, natural habitat, filters Morden’s drinking water, and provides opportunity for improving physical and mental health – promoting active recreation within a very short distance of town in a natural beautiful setting. The issue is that part of the proposal involves trading this public land to a private owner – who could choose to protect this land and donate it to conservation groups – or could choose to build on it. The issue is that once this decision is made, the trees are torn out, the concrete parking lot, condos, etc go up there is no turning back and that part of Morden’s jewel in her crown will be lost.
By: A on March 25, 2010
at 12:15 pm
I lived in Morden from 1980 to 1990. I was the Land Resource Specialist for the Central Region of the Department of Agriculture and as such was very involved with MSTW. I appreciate that the present board is trying to obtain all the information regarding this application. I do hope they will recognize the uniqueness of this site as a natural area. There are plenty of other areas where condoes and houses can be built
By: John R Daly on March 25, 2010
at 1:15 pm
I have to agree with Dudley that perhaps some of the comments made could be deleted before things get out of control, some of mine included. And while I am opposed to having any structure or building so close to the lake, maybe there could be a compromise? Might it be possible for a designated group of concerned citizens to be involved in the planning, where both sides can reach agreement?
If we look at the development by the golf course, it really isn’t noticeable, except for the drive in. But let’s keep in mind the ease of transplanting a few tree’s.
Maybe any building could be pushed north a few hundred feet (or meters) leaving room for natural growth, or more transplanting?
I believe there is some way a positive agreement will be reached.
By: Brent Krause on March 25, 2010
at 1:19 pm
It is just a proposal and i have every confidence in the councils involved. I stated in my original post i think it to be too close to the embankment and the riparian zone should be wider. this would give people their green space to walk their dogs. (seems to be what most are concerned with) A living area overlooking the lake will have no more impact on water quality than the use the lake is already getting. The sewage isn’t going to be dumped into the lake. If the roadway and parking facilities are properly built they won’t affect water quality either. Personally i think all lakes should be surrounded by a wide margin of crown land accessible to all persons to use, except man made lakes. That is not what appears to be the issue when reading the posts on here. Has there been any alternative sites suggested or any mention of compromise other than from Brent Krause and myself? Maybe there is a site available on the edge of the escarpment that would afford a much nicer view? But if the developer has land to trade etc maybe he should just build on it instead. But doesn’t it already have the campsite on it? It’s just that people need to get over their personal feeling of being assaulted and inform themselves then work toward a common goal. Maybe those who are wholely opposed should unite and take a different proposal to council and the developer. act rather than react
By: Dudley on March 25, 2010
at 6:19 pm
I would have to agree with Val. I propose that they leave the lake alone. I have little faith in the town council and was happy to read of the Morden Citizens’ Community Coalition in the paper on Friday. Maybe soon our opinions will actually count. I too should have left my ‘reaction’ off this page though.
By: Patrick Simoens on March 28, 2010
at 8:34 am
I believe there could be a compromise in all of this. Everyone wants to live in a serene place. A lake is about as serene as it can get. Being an outdoors person myself, I believe it’s almost a necessity for an open nature space for the people of the town to enjoy be close by. The lake is a great place. I’ve been through the trails a number of times there and have really enjoyed it. I think that Brent had a good point of pushing the development back from the road farther. I think I myself could live very easily with this, as could many other people. Yes, it takes time to get used to condo’s there… But if it’s far enough back, it’s going to be no annoyance to anyone wanting to walk their pets there, as well as to no one living there. Lets face it, the people living there won’t want dog droppings all over their yards… haha. So I think if it’s possible to push it far enough back, everyone could be happy. But there definitely needs to be a buffer zone between the condo’s and where people walk to give that area the feeling of a peaceful spot that is very much needed. Everyone needs a little peace and quiet outside without having to drive an hour am I right?
By: Gareth Hunt on March 31, 2010
at 8:29 am
A couple of evenings ago, I was at the edge of the Dead Horse Creek valley and saw four bald eagles at one time. Today I saw seven hawks circling.
By: Andy on April 1, 2010
at 5:52 pm
My first response was…what a great idea…and with a view…and a natural place to hike and walk and enjoy nature and the lake with all its benefits…as long as it complies with all zoning and building by-laws, it should be a great asset to our community and value added to the lake….the buffer zone and green space is still adequate for public use…lets help the public officials concerned, public and developer come to a positive agreement and develop something where we all can be proud and happy….
By: arthur thiessen on April 1, 2010
at 8:12 pm
It is great to hear people’s thoughts. I hope the developer and the town are keeping an eye on all of this. I do believe there is a way for this to work for everyone involved if they would all sit down and talk. One can only hope !!!
By: Sally on April 2, 2010
at 12:29 pm
For what it’s worth, the lake trail and surrounding area were a big factor in my family’s decision to move to Morden. To have a piece of natural, undeveloped land in this part of the province is absolutely priceless.
By: Joel on April 7, 2010
at 9:19 pm
I am very happy to hear that they have unanimously rejected the development plans! What wonderful news to wake up to on Earth Day!
By: patrick Simoens on April 22, 2010
at 6:13 am
I agree with you Patrick, but I’m sorry to hear that reasoning went out the window. Obviously the people in Morden want change, and now I hope the consequences of this vote are not detrimental to the town, as it may very well be.
Happy Earth Day:)
By: Brent Krause on April 22, 2010
at 9:08 am
Reasoning went out the window? It seems to me that the MSTW board had many sound reasons for their decision. I agreed to some extent with earlier comments you had made about exploring compromise, but this proposal in its current form just had too many reasons working against it.
By: Lorenzo on April 22, 2010
at 2:28 pm
This is great news for the town of Morden! Morden is so fortunate to have the lake and in my opinion the best drinking water around that this development would have put both at risk. I use to live in Killarney and saw first hand what a buildup around a lake can do. Killarney’s lake is now so gross that no one wants to go swimming and the drinking water is so chlorinated that everyone has been forced to buy water. It is good to see that common sense and good judgment for once triumphed over money and greed.
Congratulations and thanks to everyone for your hard work in defeating this!
By: Charles Sloane on April 22, 2010
at 12:17 pm
It was definitely great news to wake up to. However, I think that steps need to be made in order to implement some permanent conservation measures for the lake.
After all, what is stopping the devellopers from waiting untill the public furor has abated before trying to sneak a rezone through?
By: Colin Sibilleau on April 22, 2010
at 6:54 pm