Paradise off the Grid?

I came across this article this morning while searching for blogpost inspiration. On the border of Nicaragua and Costa Rica, a community is being built thanks to the help of American surfer Donn Wilson. He is building a community called Las Fincas de Escamequita that is completely off the grid. It relies on solar power, reuse of grey water and sewage. It borders a 300 hectare portion of wildlife reserve and is a stones throw away from the ocean. It is not a highly advertised development in hopes of only attracting those that "belong there". Restrictions are put in place for building footprint, height and use of land.

Wilson hopes to have a common area where people can get together, do yoga, have coffee and generally hang out. It appears that mostly North Americans are flooding to this development in hopes of increasing their 'spirituality' and general 'wellness'. One home owner in Las Fincas said, "... if you look on the beach, it’s all Nicaraguan families. What Donn is doing is admirable, and it’s such a commitment for him.”

I agree with what the development is doing to limit its environmental footprint and enjoy 'living off the land'. I think it's great that they are so committed to living a minimalist lifestyle, however, I feel a small disappointment for the local Nicaraguans who simply don't have the money to afford living in this development. In such a poor country, this development must seem like the "Emily Carr Drive" or "Oak Bay" of the area. It is restrictive for the locals, though they may live close by. I just don't foresee a lot of mingling between the two groups. To me, this simply goes against the true definition of community.

What about affordable housing for the locals, what about rebates, or support for the locals to move into this area? How could Wilson create a more multi-cultural development? After all diversity has such a positive impact on social capital. Why not integrate and benefit from each others knowledge? Most importantly, give the locals a meaningful say in how this development is planned out.

A portion of the sales proceeds goes to helping the neighbouring local community rebuild infrastructure, but again, the communities are kept separate. I'd love to see this community flourish with integration, consultation and contribution from all parties.