Editor, The News:
Re: COLUMN: Our attitudes are changing.
I agree with Neil Corbett that they are changing, and I like to think in the direction of greater compassion for the homeless and those valiantly struggling with addiction.
It is good to have compassion, not just for the homeless, but for all people who live in Maple Ridge, including seniors, parents and children.
With this in mind, I am not at all sure that the proposed development on Royal Crescent will be of benefit to all.
From what I have read, it seems that some of the people associated with Anita Place tent city do not like the plan the province simply announced with no consultation.
Perhaps they are concerned with losing their autonomy and dignity in an institutional setting. It also seems that many residents in close proximity are also concerned for a variety of valid reasons, including that those in need will not be properly served.
What concerns me most of all is the autocratic manner in which the province has moved, without so much as a by-your-leave to anyone who lives here. We have simply been presented with a fait accompli.
I believe we have all been treated with a lack of respect, as our wishes have not been consulted; and far less have we had a transparent, open public process where the best solutions can be discovered together.
Such a process would surely bring us all together to create something which we can all be proud of and which will enhance all our lives.
Sheila Smyth
Maple Ridge
