It is good to see the new editor John Harding of the PQB News wetting his feet in the stew of local Qualicum Beach politics so quickly (News editorial Sept. 14).
However, he should, perhaps, have done a little more homework before hitting the keyboard.
For many years and guided by dedicated elected citizens, the town has evolved into a community which is greatly admired by many. Responsible and professional management of business affairs, social activities and ecological concerns make our town much envied.
Outstanding citizen support of mayor and council has helped preserve the quality of life we seek — until the election of November, 2011 when majority control fell into the hands of a minority of voters.
This “Gang of Three”— No! Not a fun title but a warning of the disaster awaiting us if its priorities remain unchanged — is thumbing its nose at the majority of residents in order to benefit (they think!) the business and construction communities.
For the majority of residents bigger is not better, growth is not necessarily good, the OCP represents the views of most of us, we don’t believe the town will die if kept small and competently run.
The run-up to last year’s election contained many warnings of what might result if votes were given to the reformers.
I have my own theory as to why this happened. So, unless there is provision for recall in the local government act we are stuck with two more years of attempts to change Qualicum Beach.
It is the responsibility of all of us who do not see the town as broke and needing fixing to stay vigilant and be heard when the subsequent changes become public knowledge.
Frank Horner
Qualicum Beach
