Mountain development nixed

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Negotiations between a British Columbia band and a ski resort over proposed development of Apex, Brent and Isintok mountains region are at a stalemate.

The Penticton Indian Band is opposed to the April $20 million plan to expand the facilities of the Apex Alpine Ski Resort. Band administrator Greg Gabriel says the expansion will have detrimental effects on the band's water supply and safety of community members.

"Our environmental concerns are first and foremost. The watershed drains into our, and nearby bands, water supply," he said. "Apex also wants to develop the road going through our community. Only one route goes to the ski hill, going through the centre of the community. Development would represent a huge influx of traffic, increasing danger to community members."

The band issued a moratorium on any form of further development in the area. A meeting with Apex representatives and the Penticton Chamber of Commerce resulted in a heated discussion.

Chamber of Commerce president Jane Howard is urging the provincial minister of Indian Affairs to pick up the pace on negotiations. Howard is concerned the stalemate may result in a blockade, which will adversely affect tourism in the city.

"Apex is a very solid draw. If there is a blockade, skier traffic would be rerouted out of Penticton. "But we're trying to deal with the issue equitably."