Thank you to John Harding for discussing another concern regarding the problematic anomaly known as French Creek (The NEWS, July 2 editorial).
The governance of this area leaves much to be desired. With no disrespect to Joe Stanhope, who has worked diligently for many years to represent Electoral Area G residents, he is our only voice on a council which no longer meets our needs. We have very little say in matters which concern us as tax-paying residents.
That two people could convince the council to reverse its stand regarding the Telus mobile communication tower is disturbing. They may be well-intentioned (even the anti-vaccine people are well-intentioned) but the safety of many in this area continues to be compromised due to spotty cell reception.
We pay our taxes to the province which in some manner unknown to me give some back to the RDN to provide us with services. But we also pay more money to RDN for other services as outlined on the back of their bill.
The only provincial benefit the folks in French Creek have received lately is word that a bureaucrat in Victoria has approved a massive increase in the price we pay Epcor for water. In a letter to residents, the water comptroller said that advertising the increase was enough on his part and couldn’t be bothered taking the time to travel from Victoria to meet concerned citizens.
These are only two of many problems this governance system fails to address.
Isn’t it about time Electoral Area G as a civic entity be relegated to the history books and a new approach taken?
Couldn’t the area of French Creek west of the creek itself be amalgamated with Qualicum Beach?
Couldn’t the area east of the creek become part of Parksville along with Surfside and San Pareil?
Lionel DaneaultFrench Creek
