Editor:
It has now been over a month that Gibsons council passed a resolution to keep Glassford Road closed despite the majority area residences requests the road to remain open. So much for public consultation.
Council’s decision was reached with very little discussion and absolutely no public consultation.
The Town website has been updated to reflect the changes in the road structure. The website also states in part …“The closure of that section of Glassford Road reflects the needs of the local residents, which include approximately 30 children who use the space as a play area.”
How can this reflect the needs for the local residents when the majority have requested that the road be re-opened?
Within the website section of “Project History,” the town outlines the results of online community meetings and dedicated surveys – the three surveys conducted by the town indicate that the majority of the residents do not want Glassford Road closed.
According to the Town’s OCP, Glassford Road is a “Type 1” local road. Meaning, that it is a road that is capable of supplying emergency vehicle access and emergency egress to the number of residents in the area. To add to the weight of these safety measure, the town bylaw #1175 limits the length of a cul-de-sac to ensure emergency egress and access.
The questions remain:
When and how are the residents to be consulted as to what happens next on Glassford Road?
Why is the emphasis placed on the ability of children to play on this street versus any other street in Gibsons?
Why is council actively seeking community engagement and then ignoring the results of every survey and petition?
The council’s proclamation to ensure safety. How is closing the road and limiting emergency access and egress improving safety?
Mark Evans
Gibsons
