Editor:
In the almost 30 years that I’ve been reading this local paper, I have always felt that everyone is entitled to his or her opinion, and never felt the need to respond - until now.
With all due respect to Mr. Harrison‘s comments in the Nov. 8 issue, ‘A fresh perspective needed on council’ is not the issue -- the law pertaining to this chronic waterfront situation is. The view of this ‘Dogpatch’ parking lot is certainly no asset to our town, and is most likely a safety concern as well.
The frustration of everyone, especially the Maritime Society, who have poured their hearts and money into upgrading their marina to attract visitors from all over, is absolutely at its limit. I personally feel that it’s totally unacceptable that our various levels of government seem to have no mechanism to work together to resolve serious issues that are truly causing hardships for municipalities.
As for suggesting expropriation as a possible method for success, that’s not as simple as it may sound. After being involved in discussions regarding this problem while I was on council, I know that this can be a very complicated and costly process, and even if the town were to get access to the courts in a timely fashion, the cost might not be perceived as the ‘highest and best use’ of taxpayers’ money.
I can assure you that our mayor and councils have not been intentionally delaying or using excuses to prevent a resolution. And to single out councillor Paterson is totally unfounded. This fight is not over by a long shot, no matter who is elected to our council.
We all have to be patient, informed, and continue to support our elected representatives to ensure a resolution to this ongoing challenge.
Jan Christenson
Ladysmith