Letterbox: Pinnacle Ridge proposal would be built on solid ground, cut response times for emergency services

Written by Tony Barone of Christen Luxury Homes Ltd., this letter was written in response to the article: Mudslides and emergency evacuations: Anmore council mulls concerns over Pinnacle Ridge development.

Dear editor,

As an Anmore resident and part of the team behind the proposal, I want to ensure readers have accurate, sourced information about what is being proposed.

First, regarding the coverage of the Mossom Creek Hatchery and Mayor McEwen’s comments on geotechnical stability and septic discharge, the article stated: the steepness of the terrain was cited as a key issue for Mossom Creek Hatchery, as the group voiced concerns over the possibility of “catastrophic overland mudslides” hitting the creek.

The potential for groundwater contamination from septic discharge was also raised by hatchery representatives, according to a village staff report. In response, village staff confirmed there will be ‘comprehensive geotechnical and hydrogeological assessments” at the subdivision stage, which would follow council approval’.”

With respect to the above, we would like to advise: Slope stability and runoff management are critical and were top of mind as we worked with the village to develop our detailed plan for this site.

Multiple independent geotechnical reports and on-site investigations have already confirmed the hillside is geotechnically stable and suitable for construction. The site is bedrock-controlled, underlain by very dense glacial till, a naturally stable condition. We are also conducting year-round geohydrological studies which show minimal groundwater presence through this area, meaning there is no opportunity for heavy water flows moving through the site. All those reports are available online at the Village of Anmore website.

In terms of water runoff, our proposal incorporates water management controls like house sumps, catch basins with trapping hoods, and storm detention facilities to help filter out debris and contaminants. Environmental assessments have already been completed, along with additional field studies to map and protect all watercourses on the site.

Regarding the concerns around septic discharge, Pinnacle Ridge Hillside will use Fraser Health–approved Type 3 treatment systems, the most advanced technology available in B.C. These systems are designed and certified by Professional Engineers, approved by Fraser Health, and will be professionally maintained under service contracts. We previously wrote about the proposal’s septic systems here.

The treated water will be released gradually through pressure-distribution and timed dosing systems, ensuring even dispersal throughout the day. The resulting treated water that enters the soil is very clean, with total solids and biochemical oxygen demand both below 10 milligrams per liter – which is very clear water. For perspective: the release from a four-bedroom home with a basement suite will be less than 3 mm of rainfall per day on an average sized lot.

These septic systems will be far more advanced and safe than those currently installed on most Anmore properties. We care about long-term septic safety too, which is why we’re exploring options to ensure homeowners will be required to secure regular septic maintenance as a condition of their purchase of the lot.

Secondly, on traffic, the article quotes Mayor McEwen:

“I don’t know how that would all work whatsoever,” McEwen said, emphasizing the need for a traffic report.

For Sasamat Volunteer Fire Department, major concerns revolved around getting people out in an emergency. Handling an emergency evacuation on steep roads around Charlotte Crescent and Road A are a concern, according to the department.”

Our response to this issue is: As the mayor is aware, a full and detailed Transportation Impact Assessment (TIA) has already been completed for Pinnacle Ridge Hillside, and shows that there will be no impact to commutes and drivetimes. Those studies are on the Village’s website.

A new road connection, proposed by village staff and planned as part of the proposal will extend Ridge Mountain Drive to Wyndham Crescent, creating multiple access points that will reduce response times for emergency services, not delay them. An updated traffic study that includes the new Wyndham Crescent connection has been submitted to the village on November 12, which will also be presented to the Council and public for further review.

Finally, regarding a water reservoir, the article states: “village staff are reviewing the possibility of a new reservoir to service Pinnacle Ridge.”

In fact, our proposal already includes the construction of a new water reservoir that will supply water to the proposed development and strengthen Anmore’s fire protection systems and improve emergency preparedness.

Anmore residents deserve to have clarity on all of the information regarding the important proposal as they form their views. I appreciate the chance to provide these facts and remain committed to transparency as the community continues its discussion about Pinnacle Ridge Hillside.

Tony Barone
Christen Luxury Homes Ltd.