View of Kalamalka Lake from Middleton Mountain in Coldstream (Vernon Matters file photo)

By Pete McIntyre

Coldstream

Residents call for bylaw to protect views

Sep 28, 2023 | 1:00 PM

Coldstream council has heard from residents of the Upper Middleton Mountain neighbourhood who want to ensure their views of Kalamalka Lake are not obstructed by trees.

Resident James Young presented a petition to council at its meeting this week (Sept. 25), stating that “the vast majority of residents on Middleton Mountain are very passionate about our views and strongly endorse the need for a bylaw.”

Young said in his presentation, “enacting a bylaw will create uniformity and equality for all residents.”

“This initiative is not anti-tree,” he explained. “The planting of native species vegetation including trees and protecting view scapes is not mutually exclusive.”

Middleton resident John Price said in an email to the district, a neighbour on a lower adjoining property has planted an elm tree which is already causing him to lose views.

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“I believe there should be a Coldstream bylaw in place to protect the beautiful Kal Lake /Coldstream views for all Coldstream residents,” Price wrote. “These lots come at a premium dollar, and we did pay a premium at the time, and taxes and resale values are based on the views of one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

Price added a new bylaw could be enforced upon complaint by the district.

“I am not sure of what the restrictions should be but I have heard that statutory building schemes guidelines state no growth higher than the roofline of the dwelling lot. The District of Coldstream is our only defence to protect our views, property values etc. against those that have no consideration for their neighbours,” Price said.

Council has directed staff to provide a report on the issue for its Oct. 10th meeting.