Jumbo Survey Results No Surprise
Electoral Area F Votes Overwhelmingly Against Jumbo Resort
Wildsight is not surprised the residents of Electoral Area F have voted overwhelmingly against the proposed Jumbo Glacier Resort, one of the most significant issues in the Columbia Valley.
In survey results released by the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) on November 14, 2007, the RDEK reports 643 residents voted against Jumbo while 173 residents voted in favour (1084 total ballots received with 268 invalid ballots).
This equals nearly 79% of voting residents with valid ballots that have spoken out against the resort.
"These results are not surprising,” says Wildsight spokesperson Kat Hartwig. “They reflect what Wildsight has articulated all along,"
Although resort promoters have consistently stated there is enormous support for their development, these results are evidence to the contrary. "Where are all the resort supporters?” says Hartwig. “The survey results clearly show an unmistakable and strong majority of residents opposed to this mega resort.”
Wildsight also sees these results as an encouraging democratic stride for the region. "The RDEK and those who voted should be commended for their commitment and courage,” says Hartwig. “If democracy really works in our region, then we look forward to seeing this resort development halted."
Wildsight is urging that steps are taken to act upon the concerns of the majority of citizens.
In the November 14, 2007 RDEK press release, Electoral Area F Director Lillian Rose stated: “Residents needed to have a say. This survey was the only forum currently available for Area F people to have a voice and register their opinion on this important development proposal.”
The residents have had their say. They’ve said no to the Jumbo Glacier Resort.
For more information, contact:
Kat Hartwig
Phone: 250-342-5445
kat@wildsight.ca
