I am Canadian, and very proud and grateful for that. As a Canadian, we are fortunate to live in a democracy. We have a choice in who we elect to represent our interests. We need to trust these people. We need to trust that decisions are made after all information is gathered and analyzed. At the end of the day we need to trust that our government will do the right thing.
We also have the right of public consultation, for those major issues that can directly affect peoples' lives. In these major decisions it is prudent to ask the electorate, through polls, mail outs or direct contact, for their input.
In regards to the waste transfer site relocation, the ball was dropped. There was definitely no public consultation before the decision was made. We rallied our neighbours, and presented our case to council. Our mayor has expressed some concern in the decision-making process, and acknowledged some of our points.
Then the newspaper came out on the July 22nd and two councillors, Danny Rieberger and Heather Taylor, said, “that while they were impressed with the research and passion from the residents, they were not swayed to change their decision about moving the waste transfer site next to the mobile home park.”
That was disturbing. Not swayed? We painstakingly researched this issue. It appears we have found pertinent information that was not presented to council. We were not afforded the opportunity of public consultation in a matter that directly affects our lives. The majority of our community has spoken out with firm dissent of the decision and the process. I was very disappointed and shocked with the cavalier attitude expressed.
However, as I write this the town has put out a press release that was published in this edition of the Innisfail Province. Although the site adjacent to Westwood Court is still on the table I am very pleased that a review is being conducted followed by a public forum.
My trust in democracy is being solidified and my trust in our local government has slightly risen. I certainly hope this is not just a political play.
I hope our leaders sincerely examine all the available information, as well as listen to their electorate and do what is right.
Thank you Mayor Spiller for hearing us. Your current action is notable and commendable. Any politician who can recognize a mistake, and take quick and appropriate measures to correct it, gets a gold star in my book.
I want to thank all of my neighbours, and town citizens who participated in our recent activities. I also want to thank Donald Petersen, owner of Westwood Court, and our managers Cathy and William for all their support. Of course, a large thank you to my co-presenter and fact finder Dan Giesbrecht. A huge thank you to my neighbour and new friend Sandra Wright. I could not have done it without all your help.
The recent news is encouraging, but my passion and resolve will remain. I will watch this process as closely as possible. I encourage all residents to attend the public forum, and let your voice be heard.
Donald Corcoran is a resident of Westwood Court Mobile Home Park.
The town and council were also invited to write a guest column for the Province. However, the Province was informed last week the town and council instead opted to issue a press release last week.
