I would like to thank Mayor [Jon] Lefebure and the CVRD for holding the July 11 meeting to hear from the public representing so many voices to save the ancient tree at the Island Savings Centre.
I have for two weeks listened, watched and supported the efforts of approximately 1,700 citizens of all ages and demographics with a core team with Seairra Courtemanche standing with the tree representing and protecting it, literally from the power saw, on June 28. Thank you to all.
Parents brought their children, mothers told their (grown) children to please sign the petition as they had done. Seniors, retired politicians, bureaucrats, tree experts, homeless, working, taxpayers, young people and students who love the tree as it stands significantly and protecting, honoured this maple tree’s longevity and special memories.
It is a survivor of lightening strikes, extra-wide sidewalk butted to its root system, little soil at its base, with cars driving beside it for years. It is amazing it remains as beautiful as it has, despite man’s lack of planning to protect it. It needs to be maintained and cared for as we are told it still has many years left if properly managed.
The time is now to preserve this legacy of life and history loved by so many.
Joyce Behnsen
North Cowichan
