Bernie, I hope that your worries will be addressed and resolved.
I have been on one or two NIMBY crusades in my time, and I can sympathize with some of the concerns and fears that local residents might have. I hope that your all worries will be addressed and resolved.
I don't agree with your analysis of the impact of Richmond Downs. I wonder if you have seen the actual proposal or talked with anyone at Sungold. I think you will find they are quite approachable and willing to talk with you about it.
Please be sure that the company is being very sensitive to consult with all concerned groups. The company is working with the Richmond planning and development committee to address any concerns before official applications are made. Provincial and civic government agencies are being consulted. The company is going overboard to proceed slowly, cautiously, and with sensitivity. They have employed urban and environmental planning consultants to ensure that residents' concerns will be considered and satisfied.
Regarding the existing horse racing track, most horse racing groups admit that Hastings Park racetrack has outlived its usefulness. The B.C. government is actually already making plans to return the area to parkland. They want to revitalize a salmon spawning stream there.
You may also be surprised to know that many B.C. and Richmond business associations, horesmen's associations, and civic leaders have expressed support for this new project. As for the ALR, horse racing is widely recognized as an agricultural activity, as are the commercial nurseries and golf courses that currently operate within the ALR.
The actual location for the Richmond Downs proposal is not near any residential area. In fact, it is adjacent to a toxic land fill area that Richmond residents have been living with as parkland for years. It is also situated adjacent to existing arterial routes that can transport the traffic easily. None of the traffic will be going through or near residential zones.
This project appeals to some Richmond residents because it will assist in keeping their property taxes down. The project certainly appeals to business associations because it will bring in tourists who will use local hotels, restaurants, car rentals, stores, etc., - and will help keep business taxes down. Anyone involved with horse breeding and racing will benefit, including people who take horse riding lessons or compete in dressage events - there is a large area devoted to these purposes.
No one has mentioned the number of jobs and economic benefits to be derived from the construction phase. Most of this money will flow directly into the local economy. I don't need to mention that jobs and tax revenues are sorely needed in B.C. right now.
Horse racing and breeding in the lower mainland accounts for about 7,000 jobs. Currently, horse racing in B.C. is second rate compared to other world class centres because B.C. does not have a mile plus track. A new track is necessary, and people involved with horses will all benefit from a world class facility. Currently, horse breeders in B.C. who own expensive horses often board and race their horses in the U.S.. B.C. breeders and horse owners should not have to take a back seat this way.
The casino related portion of the Richmond Downs project involves nothing more than the sort of slots and electronic games that already exist in charitable casinos throughout B.C. There will be no tables or high stakes games. Small stakes gaming machines are similar to lotteries - an accepted part of Canadian life.
The project includes a children's park where children and families can play outdoor games and interact with small horses. The project also includes plans for a concert pavilion for music performances.
In short, from what I have seen of the plans, I think this is the sort of world class facility that many citizens would be proud to have in their community. The designs for the facility, which will be mostly grassland, have been prepared by Cole Cherry Brott, architects who are acknowledged leaders in their field, having already designed many such facilities. The plans are gorgeous, really aesthetically appealing. It will be a beautiful landmark that will help put Richmond on the international map.
After saying all this, I agree with Cheeky Kid. Although I think Richmond Downs is a great idea that will contribute to the vitality of life and the economy in B.C., the future of Sungold is in no way dependent on the success of Richmond Downs. Michigan and South Korea provide more than enough upside potential on their own. The Michigan project alone could suffice for three reasons: location, location, location. It is in the centre of about 8 million people.
Anyway Bernie, I wish you the best, and I really hope that Sungold and the various government groups listen to your concerns and resolve them to your satisfaction. I also hope, for the good of Richmond and B.C., that Richmond Downs goes ahead. |
