Although Mayor Tim Johnston sent a letter of support to Manitoba Conservation Minister Bill Blaikie, regarding a bid to establish a seasonal recreation vehicle park at Paint Lake Provincial Park, the province says the deal is a no-go.In early May the minster sent a letter back to Johnston stating that the plan for the RV park was reviewed by the parks and natural areas branch of the provincial government and approval was not granted due to "the proposed shoreline site for the RV park not being considered an appropriate development for this location."
Blaikie went on to say that it was his understanding that Paint Lake Resort was informed that they might, with proper approvals, construct additional rental cabin accommodations in the area that was proposed for the RV park.
"Their lease does allow for this type of development, and this land use would be considered more appropriate," Blaikie wrote, adding that the RV park was not consistent with the province's "management objectives" for the park.Johnston says he still supports the idea of an RV park at Paint Lake, and told the Thompson Citizen that the city has followed up with another letter to Blaikie requesting a copy of the Paint Lake Provincial Park plan. He says he is dedicated to working with Paint Lake to see future recreation activities are made possible within its boundaries.
