To the editor:
How exciting to see that the Rotary Club had put together such a well thought out proposal for a town square.
What a wonderful way to beautify our town. We could hold the Farmer’s Market there. BJ’s Donuts & Eatery could have an outdoor eating area.
There could be street vendors, night concerts and art shows, etc.
How unbelievably disappointing, frustrating, and baffling it was to read the town council had unanimously rejected it.
“It would negatively impact or cause undue hardship to nearby businesses.”
How would an increase in foot traffic, events, and downtown beautification negatively impact business?
Are these the same people who insisted the Show and Shine be moved from Birch Avenue to Centennial Park?
Why are these few businesses granted the power to deprive 100 Mile House of these events and opportunities?
I feel the citizens of 100 Mile are the ones being negatively impacted, by the shortsightedness of these businesses.
The district fathers said, “They weren’t prepared to invest municipal funds, or raise business tax rates to support the development of sidewalks, public washrooms or upgrades to existing public areas around the community hall.”
The district fathers aren’t willing to invest in a project that will promote the downtown area; they are, however, willing to spend $130,000 on a sidewalk from Pioneer Haven to Save-On-Foods.
Also, published information stated the Rotary Club was willing to contribute $40,000, and gather further grants to support the project, all without impacting taxpayer’s money.
I feel 100 Mile is lacking a sense of community, a sense of pride and heart.
I hope council, along with the several business owners, will re-think their swift rejection of this latest initiative for change and betterment.
In my opinion, it’s a choice that does not reflect the best interests of our town.
Nadaya McNeil
100 Mile House