We, the undersigned supporters, residents and property owners of the District of Highlands, strongly oppose Bylaw 484 in its current form. This bylaw poses a direct threat to the rural character and property rights that are cherished by our community.

The Official Community Plan (OCP) of the Highlands emphasizes the importance of preserving our unique rural character, privacy, and the consideration of site-specific planning. However, Bylaw 484 conflicts with these foundational principles by potentially restricting the natural evolution of our community. It undermines the spirit of our OCP by imposing constraints that could limit the ability for residents to live harmoniously with their environment, family, and neighbors.

One of the primary concerns is the potential impact on multi-generational housing and the idea of aging in place. Families in the Highlands have long been able to support one another by sharing resources and living spaces. Bylaw 484 could unnecessarily restrict the reasonable use of large rural properties, preventing families from building homes that accommodate these needs.

Moreover, the breadth of existing environmental protections already ensures that any development is carefully evaluated on a case-by-case basis, taking into account its size, impact, and appropriateness. Bylaw 484's blanket dwelling size cap does not acknowledge these established protections, instead proposing an inflexible rule that fails to consider the unique characteristics of each property.

What we need is a plan that respects individual circumstances and supports the rural lifestyle that is integral to the identity of the Highlands. Each property is unique, and decisions regarding them ought to be made with respect for that individuality.

By signing this petition, you stand with your neighbors in safeguarding our community's values. We urge the decision-makers to reject Bylaw 484 in its current form, in favor of solutions that truly align with the spirit of our community's vision. Let's preserve the Highlands' rural character and property rights together.