Voters need facts on amalgamation
Times Colonist
August 22, 2014
Re: “Amalgamation: Let’s get beyond the emotion,” Aug. 20.
I congratulate Doug Enns on his commentary on amalgamation and the Times Colonist for publishing it.
It is refreshing to read that a number of larger amalgamations in Canada have not been successful. While I suspect that some form of amalgamation will eventually come to Greater Victoria, I agree with Enns that it must be done after all the facts are presented to the voting public, the negative with the positive.
If is agreed that it will proceed, a committee with the authority to make the tough decisions would have to be formed and allowed to make those decisions. Many toes would be stepped on, including those in the City of Victoria. Discussions on what is best for the greater good would have to be made, not just what is good for the city.
So far, the proponents of amalgamation have only pushed what they consider the benefits. While these might be true, there are negatives to be considered and they must be discussed if we are to be asked to vote on this subject.
Let’s hear from people who lived in areas surrounding cities that have been forced to amalgamate.
William Bryant
Saanich
© Copyright Times Colonist
Times Colonist
August 22, 2014
Re: “Amalgamation: Let’s get beyond the emotion,” Aug. 20.
I congratulate Doug Enns on his commentary on amalgamation and the Times Colonist for publishing it.
It is refreshing to read that a number of larger amalgamations in Canada have not been successful. While I suspect that some form of amalgamation will eventually come to Greater Victoria, I agree with Enns that it must be done after all the facts are presented to the voting public, the negative with the positive.
If is agreed that it will proceed, a committee with the authority to make the tough decisions would have to be formed and allowed to make those decisions. Many toes would be stepped on, including those in the City of Victoria. Discussions on what is best for the greater good would have to be made, not just what is good for the city.
So far, the proponents of amalgamation have only pushed what they consider the benefits. While these might be true, there are negatives to be considered and they must be discussed if we are to be asked to vote on this subject.
Let’s hear from people who lived in areas surrounding cities that have been forced to amalgamate.
William Bryant
Saanich
© Copyright Times Colonist
