In a recent community meeting, local resident Pauline Grimes voiced her deep concerns regarding ongoing development in Avalon Beach, particularly the impact on wetlands and local wildlife. Grimes highlighted that the area, which includes Country Lane, Santa Cruz, and surrounding streets, should never have been cleared for construction due to its wetland status. She emphasized the ecological consequences of such actions, stating that the clearing of land is detrimental to various species, including bears, deer, and numerous other animals that rely on these habitats.

Grimes criticized the approval of new housing developments, arguing that they threaten to exacerbate flooding issues and disrupt the natural environment. She expressed frustration over the apparent disregard for regulations meant to protect wetlands, claiming that construction activities have been carried out despite warnings against clearing certain areas.

The resident also raised concerns about the increasing rat population in the neighborhood, attributing it to the loss of natural habitats. She described the challenges faced by her neighbors, including the need to set traps for small pets due to the influx of rodents. Grimes pointed out the significant rise in traffic and population density since 2020, predicting that the situation will worsen as more apartments and houses are completed.

In her passionate plea, Grimes called for a reconsideration of building practices, suggesting that leaving green spaces between developments could benefit both the community and the wildlife. She concluded by sharing her observations of displaced deer, underscoring the emotional toll that habitat destruction takes on local fauna. The meeting underscored a growing concern among residents about the balance between development and environmental preservation in their community.