December 17, 2017
To: SLCO Members
Re: Status Update of Proposed Lippa Pit and Quarry
A brief note to keep you informed on the status of the proposed Lippa pit and quarry:
As many of you are aware, SLCO and the “Stop Muskoka Pit” group have been working together to oppose a 200,000 tonne/year pit and quarry that Frank Lippa is proposing to develop at a site 1.7 km from Skeleton Lake. In June of this year, the Township of Muskoka Lakes Council voted unanimously to deny Mr. Lippa’s rezoning application, in response to concerns raised about the impaired water quality, noise, and traffic that would result from such an operation. Mr. Lippa subsequently filed an appeal to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB). In response, SLCO has retained external counsel (David Donnelly) and various experts to assist us in opposing Mr. Lippa’s appeal.
Last week, we received some new information about the OMB Lippa appeal hearing. Specifically, a pre-hearing conference will be held on Wednesday, February 21. The purpose of this conference is to determine the issues, parties, and participants prior to the actual OMB hearing, which is expected to take place next summer. As David advises, a strong turnout from residents and cottagers who are opposed to the proposed quarry will be important at the pre-hearing conference. Thus, please mark Wednesday, February 21, 10:00 am at the Township of Muskoka Lakes Council Chambers in Port Carling on your calendar, and plan to attend if possible.
Fortunately, SLCO has sufficient funds on hand to meet the legal and expert costs it is incurring, up until the pre-hearing conference. However, substantial additional monies will be needed if we are to mount a successful opposition at the subsequent OMB hearing. Our intention is to launch a significant fundraising effort in the New Year.
We will continue to keep you informed on this matter, and are confident of your ongoing support as we fight to maintain the pristine water, along with the peace and quiet, that are so central to our enjoyment of Skeleton Lake.
As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.
Sincerely,
Scott May, President
Skeleton Lake Cottagers Organization
e: scott@skeletonlake.ca
c: 416 559 2839