The prospect of Qualicum Beach cutting its share in the Arrowsmith Water Service in half isn’t floating with one community group.
Lance Nater, the president of the Eaglecrest Residents’ Association said this week his group is dismayed about the move.
“The concern we have is there was not any discussion or facts put forward that were supportive of how that decision was reached.”
“We felt because of the importance of water, the public should have an opportunity to know what’s going on.”
In a letter to council, Nater said his group does not support council’s decision.
“The provision of safe and secure drinking water is of paramount importance to ensuring the town’s future health,” he said.
“The recent Japanese earthquake and tsunami have highlighted that water is more important to survival than food. Any decision of this magnitude must be considered by all town residents, not just council.”
He wants to see the town hold a public meeting to discuss the AWS in particular, and water issues in general. He stressed water is not just a local issue, but also a regional one.
“There is a need to understand the City of Parksville’s and the Regional District of Nanaimo’s responses to the Town’s decision to change its AWS participation agreement, and this should also be made public. The partners’ positions are important to the future impacts facing the town — politically, financially and operationally.”
That position was echoed by Councillor Mary Brouilette.
“This may be a wise decision, but I don’t believe it is,” she said. “The decision was not made with the essential components of public dialogue and citizen input. We have an opportunity to make a wise decision to engage the community and enhance our reputation as a respected regional partner.”
Brouilette said she wants the town to have the benefit of public input into the decision, calling it one of the most important decisions that can be made.
“This isn’t just a contractual decision,” she said.
“This is a life-sustaining public policy issue and probably the most important issue that can be made in this chamber that sets the course for the town’s future.”
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