For some residents of Norglenwold, disaster in the form of a wildfire could leave them stranded with their only option for leaving the area to go into the lake.
That’s a concern which councillors raised during the annual meeting of residents Saturday morning. They asked for comments about solutions to the lack of egress for people, particularly those living at the west end of Grand Avenue and in the Honeymoon Drive and Last Chance Way areas.
“We’re asking for options and would appreciate input,” said Mayor Carol McMillan. “We will review all suggestions and come up with a plan. It is a concern to us but we’re not sure how to fix it.”
“Realistically, it’s not a big problem for us,” said Kent Lyle. “In all these years it’s never happened. Do we want to go overboard. We do have the lake and can escape.”
Toby Lampard suggested the short term solution is for residents to clean up the deadwood on their properties. A former councillor, he said, “We did address this in the past. We did discuss with annexation there would be a plan to link Grand Ave. but not a fullblown direct access.”
Councillor Beverley Anderson said council wants to be seen as being proactive on the issue but added they don’t want to disturb the reserve at the west end of Grand Ave.
Noting references to Slave Lake and Kelowna fires, Brian Saby said “with those incidents there was some warning. We don’t need roads for people who don’t heed warnings.”
McMillan concluded discussion stating, “It doesn’t seem like this group thinks this is a big issue.” But she promised council “will review it”.