Dear Editor:
Most Puslinch residents are aware of the “Puslinch by Design” study. Many have been involved right from the start. The County Official Plan, which serves Puslinch, applies to the study.
From day one we were told that the study was to be based upon local feedback. It stated that employment areas should be located in the right location to be compatible with the surrounding area. These commitments are being honoured.
Mary Lou Tanner of NPG Solutions led the project. She involved the community, treated everyone with respect and worked to develop solutions to any concerns she was hearing.
The consultant, Mayor James Seeley and councillors invited our participation in the process and truly listened. Public open house meetings were held. Seeley reached out asking for our position. Our input was valued and the fact that we all want what is best for our beautiful township was recognized.
We can protect our quiet rural communities and preserve the rural character of Puslinch by simply directing industry to the lands where it will do the least harm, the lands identified in the study – compromised lands, with rural character already lost that sit on busy roads built for and serving heavy traffic, sit near or adjacent to gravel pits and existing industry, while at the same time, directing industry away from those quiet country sideroads lined with farms, nature and little rural communities.
We can support industry in Puslinch and avoid needless destruction at the same time by ensuring that land use decisions protect and preserve what we, as stewards of the land, value most.
Puslinch residents greatly appreciate that the county and township have made this study possible, making certain that, together, we set a precedent and get this right by locating industry carefully and strategically, showing regard for the importance of our rural communities.
Donna and Jim Christie,
Puslinch