In the recent Western News article (Aug. 28, Trio deal not a secret) Trio Marine spokesman stated their silence came at the request of the city.
Mayor Jakubeit said he didn’t remember any such agreement coming before council and director of operations doesn’t remember anything about not engaging media. Then comes the bombshell! (Jakubeit) “Staff did give us a heads up when this first started, saying they are planning on doing something on park land. It’s park land, so some people might have issue with that.”
My question: who is “they?” Staff or Trio?
Trio spokesman in writing then states that the company signed a non-disclosure agreement until detailed plans were completed. How can people with such bad memories be in charge of anything, especially the public trust?
Question: Why did staff have plans for our park land? Where did this idea come from?
In 2013 the request for proposals asked for “intensive redevelopment of the site as a restaurant/hotel complex.” Was that at the request of the sitting council, staff, or outside influence?
When did expansion of that plan move into the existing park? Who gave the go ahead to include the existing park green space?
Most of us thought that 11 of our parks including Skaha Park were dedicated as a result of the 2002 referendum attributed to the diligent work of the Protect our Parks group. The overwhelming 90 per cent of the vote gave us faith that our parks were safe in perpetuity as an everlasting legacy.
There are petitions calling for a referendum re disposition of Skaha Park and a recall petition circulating to recall the whole council. Perhaps there should be a total housecleaning at city hall.
Is it legal for a municipal government to act within a conspiracy of silence?
Suzie Anderson
Penticton
