Dear Editor,
For a number of months the Richmond News has been publishing articles regarding new home construction in the Westwind neighbourhood. Specifically, there has been a focus on the concerns of long-time Westwind residents opposing large, three-storey homes.
My wife and I have family members, as well as a number of close friends, living in Westwind. They represent both the new building and original home residents, so we have a unique understanding of the neighbourhood.
The long-time residents appear to not only have concerns with large, three-storey houses, but really any house that does not “fit in” with the style of the homes built back in the 70s and 80s. Many of these long-time residents raised their families in this neighbourhood, creating memories. Their concern is absolutely understandable and, in some ways, admirable.
However, I challenge whether the long-time residents are missing the most important element about the new residents of Westwind.
There is so much focus on the shell of the home, instead of who is residing inside these new homes: families.
The motivation of these young families is the same motivation that created this community. They want to raise their kids in a nice, safe neighbourhood with a good school.
These are not overseas investors creating “ghost neighbourhoods.” But it is sad to hear that many of these new families are feeling ostracized by some of the current residents.
To both the original and new residents of Westwind, don’t forget why this is such a desirable neighbourhood; you have much more in common in the areas that truly matter than the cosmetic aspects that do not. Try to get to know one another before making snap judgements based on personal home style. If you keep going down this road of divisiveness, you will all lose what makes your neighbourhood, and your community, so great.
Ted Rames
Richmond
