1. What is your reaction to public feedback?
We will be moving to Rossland and raising our children there, and we are very sensitive to public opinion. We have decided to change our application to offer only non-mechanized snowshoe and backcountry ski tours. While "non-mech" won't draw additional visitors or be very profitable, it is also very low risk, and is clearly all that the community will allow. From all the feedback we have received, it is clear that the Old Glory and Plewman areas are a local treasure, and any change to the pristine backcountry experience there would simply be wrong. While we do want to create new business in Rossland, we will always try to do the "right" thing for the community.
2. Are you looking at Mt Mackie instead?
It has been suggested that we look at operating a commercial ski operation near Mts Mackie and Neptune (avoiding the huts on Crowe) instead, but we have not applied for it, and any such application would take months of research. We don't know whether the area will be commercially viable, and if so, what form the business should take. We are looking at all possible ways we can add to the future income from the Red Shutter, so that we can raise our family and stay in Rossland, so if you have other suggestions, please let us know!
2. Where can I get a copy of the application which has been submitted?
The original plan is at www.geocities.com/paulaskinner/glorycats.html but it is now out of date, as it will be changed to non-mechanized only. If you have any thoughts on this, I welcome your comments at [email protected]. Once our new plan is complete, it will be posted at that address.
3.. What process is involved with your application?
Our application was accepted by Land and Water BC on 15 Nov 03, and they will provide an answer within 140 days. Based on public feedback, we are changing our plan to non-mechanized. We will be in Rossland for the entire month of January, and are interested in listening to any suggestions you might have, but we have cancelled our public meeting.. Comments can be submitted by the public to LWBC by 8 Jan, though this deadline might be extended due to the change in plan. LWBC has also referred the full application to City Council for comments. We welcome any suggestions which might improve our proposal and hope that if you previously submitted opposition to our mechanized proposal that you will consider resubmitting a letter of support for non-mechanized touring.
Paula Skinner-Gaul, 18 Dec 03
Land and Water BC feedback and area map - please send your support
