Let’s get back on track. Dog parks, bike skills parks, more liabilities?
During our incorporation discussions, we were warned that because the local government is so available we would be inundated with requests and we needed to be firm to hold to our budget and not be swayed.
During OCP deliberations, the community, including the youth, spoke loud and clear that they loved that we were close to nature and the wonderful forests and beaches around us. The biggest concern was the lack of infrastructure, i.e. proper sidewalks and and insufficient road network downtown and the need for a bowling alley.
Council needs to remain vigilant and focused. Let’s get our house in order, i.e., focus on transportation and sidewalks. Yes, some people cycle, but the reality is that we have a highway, which is not safe.
Teaching our youth fiscal responsibility is paramount. It would be more responsible for us to encourage our children to make their own fun and projects and supervise where necessary. Seek out the adventurousness in our children and ourselves.
Parents, pull yourself off the couch and computers and phones. It irks me to see parents texting on their phones while their children are at play and seeking approval for some great feat they have accomplished i.e., jumping off a play structure. Parents need to get connected with their kids and by taxpayers paying for more play centres is not the answer.
We have a skateboard park, ice arena, swimming pool, ball and soccer parks, neighbourhood parks, cycling and hiking (easy and challenging) a boardwalk to fish and hike to as well. Unfortunately some of these areas are used by some for unsavoury behaviour. We also have easy access to beaches and forests. We have world destination parks. Use them. Your tax dollars already pay for them. Support what we have. Support the Sooke Community Association in their efforts over the years to build and maintain ball parks, community hall and campgrounds for families.
John Philips Memorial Park is eye candy as well as a lovely park to walk or cycle through. If you want to enjoy it more, help out by raising money for benches and picnic tables. Kind regards to all who love where we live.
Ellen Lewers
Sooke
