A number of Yellowknife residents have started up a petition to voice their disagreement with a proposed residential development project from the city government, after it’s initial feedback deadline was pushed back.
The project in question would see the rezoning of the natural environments of the Willow Flats neighborhood, which are currently identified as parks and recreational areas, and a nature preservation. This rezoning change would see a section of the Willow Flats area changed to be a light residential zone.
The City is allowing time for the public to share their thoughts on the matter until July 4th, after the original deadline of June 27th was pushed back. The City has also stated that a public hearing event will be scheduled soon.
A petition has since been set up by Yellowknife residents who are against the rezoning effort, and would like the Willow Flats area to remain untouched. The petition states that developing any part of Willow Flats would disrupt the local ecosystem and threaten the local species who rely on that area.
Joanne McKenzie, the organizer of the petition, states in the opening remarks that “The city government should explore alternative locations for residential development that do not compromise our natural habitats. There are multiple undeveloped areas that can be considered for housing projects without sacrificing our wetlands. Implementing sustainable urban planning practices is essential to preserve the natural beauty that defines Yellowknife.”
A comment left by a supporter of the petition reads, “this area needs to be left as is for ALL residents (people, the flora and fauna) to enjoy.”
The petition can be found on the website, change.org.