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LETTER: Sidney needs more trees, not condos

Sidney has built enough, let other Greater Victoria communities create additional housing
79430sidneyPNRTreePlantingPSept2713
A large group gathers in Cy Hampson Park to help plant Garry oak trees.

It is time for Sidney council and administration to look at the town and see the increase in traffic and residents. This town has built many condos and townhouses to offer more homes to people. Thousands have been added. It's time to let other municipalities take on the challenge.
 
Giving developers their way and just letting them build more and more condos without green restrictions is folly.  
 
I just saw on the news that Vancouver council has approved the planting of 100,000 trees, starting this summer, in order to increase the tree canopy.
Trees provide a healthier, safer and more vibrant community by reducing pollutants, and importantly, reducing the surface temperature by providing shade. This addresses the changing climate, such as heat domes and higher summer temperatures.  There is also a mental benefit for residents as they can connect more with nature and beauty.
 
Sidney can take a hint from Vancouver and approve the planting of a number of new trees for the immediate future.  
 
As more small homes and yards are demolished and plowed under and more buildings are built using most of the lot area, the trees, shrubs, flowers and soil disappear.  The more impervious surfaces, the less the earth and people can breathe clean air.
 
Sidney, please plant more trees and protect the ones we still have.
 
Lynda Comber
Sidney





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