What will FRAM build?

We will soon learn what FRAM proposes to do at our Beachfront. For the record, I agree with the people I spoke with earlier this evening who said the RFP that FRAM “won” was truly a joke.

The well known “Pitchforks and Hatchets” meeting back in 2019 had citizen Smith and Developer Frank join forces with Stonebridge Mark to launch an organized opposition group to criticize the sitting council and defeat them so they could take control again. Now, Mayor Smith wields the power and an RFP is issued that only allows two developers that are not expected to respond and one with an extensive friendship. Brian Smith is your Mayor and you will just have to take what they give us. It might be different if he (or those making these decisions) actually lived in Wasaga Beach, but it is what it is.

Hey… get used to it people. It is how our Council works right now. The meeting where FRAM will announce their plans might be the “next” official step, but when will they break ground? I have had occasion to recently speak with a group of contractors who sub contract for a few of the BIG home builders in the area and I am told sales trends are WAY down.

So, here are some interesting questions. Will FRAM purchase land from the town outright and be a “developer” or will they have complicated “trade property for buildings schemes?”

Will FRAM build right away or simply put up a sales office and ensure x% of phase one is sold before digging begins. Sales are struggling so will that mean huge delays?
Will FRAM extend to 6 stories?
Will The Town raise the road to protect future high water issues?
Will a block of three story condominiums occupy the main parking lots and will tourists be expected to take a shuttle to the beach?
Will FRAM say the same thing they said when they presented the Beach Two condominium block and told us everyone will simply be able to walk through the new “private property”?

My two cents… I supported the last Councils vision at that time, but I think a new plan is needed.

Leave Beach One and Beach Two ALONE, except for the Main Street Walking mall area and the existing beach front buildings. Re-build those that need re-building. Abandon this thought of massive condos which will lead to a feeling of private property right in the heart of our “Jewel”.

Don’t fill the Beach with Condos…Where will those who enjoy beach one park? Ask this question over and over again until Council gives you an answer you can live with.

Oh… ask one more important question…. How much will our taxes go up to pay for all of the servicing and infrastructure changes I understand are being planned. (Wait until you hear these.

But PLEASE if you do ask questions, consider whether you are being told what they think you want to hear regarding cost. Is it reasonable? Compare whatever we are told about the condos with what we are asked to believe about the Community Theatre at the new Catholic High School. Does ANYONE really believe that a community theatre will cost the Town nothing? I think it’s totally irresponsible for Council to boast about free stuff and then blow millions on building it eventually.

Can’t wait to see the actual budget for the new community theatre!

– Condos? No Condos

– Another 15% tax increase may be looming.

– Guest and Resident Parking Lots.. sell them or keep them.

Please, Please, Please… pay attention. Get involved. Several are! The silent Majority continues to grow.

Don’t be fooled!