I am very saddened by the recent move by the new Qualicum Beach council to replace mayor Westbroek with rookie councillor Dave Willie as the representative on the regional district board.
It seems entirely logical to me that a mayor should serve in this position, especially one with the experience and dedication of Westbroek who has been resoundingly elected by the people for several elections.
If this group was intending to flex their muscles and show their power could it not have been left to a less ceremonial occasion- like the next regular council meeting? I understand from some who attended that the festive atmosphere in the Civic Centre was severely dampened by this move.
Would there be this rush to replace Teunis if the $10,610 stipend were not attached?
I fear for our lovely town as this triumvirate of business people begin to push their agenda for change in the hopes of bringing more people who might support their businesses.
Will they pay attention to the wishes of the citizens of Qualicum Beach as expressed in the official community plan, or will they be using every opportunity to circumvent it with the tired excuse that the OCP “process was flawed” because they did not like the results?
I urge concerned citizens to pay attention to the moves that this triumvirate makes at council meetings to see if they agree with the growth agenda — and potential zoning changes — which will likely be proposed.
Most of us moved to Qualicum Beach because we like the small town feel and village atmosphere. I have a sinking feeling that our town is about to change and not in a way I am going to like.
If you see changes you do not agree with I urge you to make your feelings known through letters to the editor and attending council meetings.
Judy Wood
Qualicum Beach
