Eaglecrest Residents' Association - President's Report

The following article was written by Marlys Diamond, President of the Eaglecrest Residents' Association (ERA), and appeared in the December, 2006, edition of the Eaglecrest Residents' Association Newsletter.

ERA directors assumed their new term in the midst of what might be described as the Perfect Storm—the startling announcement of the potential sale and closure of the Eaglecrest Golf Course, followed by two wild rainstorms plus two traffic-stopping snowstorms.

Despite weather challenges, the newly formed Save Eaglecrest Task Force continued to meet frequently. Each meeting furthered the strategy to see our community continue to enjoy the ambiance provided by having the golf course in the heart of our community. With around 100 new homes being built in Oceanwood and The Bluffs, the addition of 200 more in Eaglecrest would have huge ramifications for our community. The traffic generated by all the building equipment and trades people would be followed by increased vehicle traffic as new residents moved in. The tranquility of the open green spaces and soft, quiet treed neighbourhood atmosphere we enjoy would disappear forever. Instead of living in our beautiful place of choice, we might as well be living in almost any other community—built-up and cemented in to the nth degree. What a disturbing thought!

The Oct. 10 announcement of the proposed closure of the golf course ensured a huge attendance at the Oct. 23 A.G.M. We are grateful for the decision made by our mayor and council to allow the meeting to be held in the Civic Centre. It has been said that close to 800 people attended. There was standing room only, with many town residents coming in support of our community. A Task Force update by Co-chair Jim Collie appears on page five. The creation of a "blog" site will be helpful in sharing new developments as they occur.

On Oct. 23 the business of an annual general meeting was handled quickly, without adequate acknowledgment and appreciation for the work and planning of the original format for the A.G.M. Past President Trevor Wood led the organizing committee in arranging for an enjoyable business and social evening. Twenty-four community members were willing to display and share their artistic talents, and ten door prizes were to be drawn. These plans, along with the refreshments, would have ensured a great social evening, with neighbours gathering to enjoy each other’s company. All this had to be cancelled. Perhaps next year!

Our community is indebted to Trevor Wood for his commitment to the E.R.A. He served an extra year as president, worked with the newly formed Neighbourhood Emergency Watch (N.E.W.), was diligent in attending council and O.C.P. review meetings, and represented our community on behalf of E.R.A. in so many ways. Luckily, he is still here as past president. Indeed, we are fortunate that almost all 2006 directors chose to continue in 2007. They are a congenial, hard-working and committed group of community-minded people and I salute them all on your behalf.

For the holiday season, try to put the thoughts of our community being in jeopardy aside and enjoy a Merry Christmas and happy holiday celebrations with family and friends. The New Year must be brighter!!