To the Editor,
Re: Activist proud to stand up for beliefs, Oct. 1
Despite some wishing otherwise, Nanaimo is a desirable city destined to grow.
Current growth involves developing privately owned land, while future growth will see the city selling some public land to accommodate growth as required.
People who have enjoyed access to privately owned land appear to believe the prior access graciously afforded to them somehow confers stakeholder status in determining its future use.
Those who wish to ‘save’ privately owned lands should use the ethical and legal means available. Civil disobedience tactics are intended to coerce both the legal property owner, civic government and other taxpayers into bending to the will of a small number of community activists.
If the Save Linley Valley crowd truly believes that preventing development is in the public interest, they should make their case to the public just as Nanaimo and Area Land Trust did in successfully preserving Mt. Benson. Negotiate a fair price and raise money from supporters who believe as you do.
Then, knowing you have chosen an honourable, honest and ethical means of preserving Linley Valley, you can enjoy the gratitude and appreciation of your fellow citizens for a job well done.
Randy O’Donnellvia e-mail
