Westhills Leads in Energy Ratings
The letter contains references to Westhills that are not accurate. It says that Westhills is “no longer seeking LEEDS sic certification” and that the development is a “clear cut almost to the shores of Langford Lake.” Neither of these statements are accurate.
Westhills voluntarily participated in the LEED for Neighbourhood Development (LEED ND) pilot program in the United States which came to an end in 2009. The Canada Green Building Council is developing its own LEED ND program, which it hopes to introduce in 2011. Westhills has committed to develop in accordance with the draft LEED ND guidelines that were in place at the time of our rezoning. In addition, Westhills has committed to construct all homes to existing Built Green standards. Built Green is a national rating program established to promote and recognize environmentally responsible development.
We at Westhills are proud of the fact that the homes that have been constructed in Westhills to date have achieved either Silver or Gold ratings, and several have achieved an EnerGuide rating of 89, the second-highest rating in B.C. (The EnerGuide rating is based on each home’s energy performance.) We disagree with the comment characterizing Westhills as a clear-cut development. Westhills has committed to providing 40 per cent of its land to Langford as park and open space over the life of the development.
LEED ND encourages developments to have a high degree of density, diversity and affordability. To meet these criteria, portions of the property need to be cleared to allow for the development of playing fields, trails, roads and a wide range of housing that will contribute to a vibrant community. It is unfortunate and discouraging that inaccurate and misleading information was provided about Westhills, which is one of Victoria’s fastest-growing and most vibrant communities.
Ryan McKenzie
Manager
Westhills Land Corp.
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