Editor:
While reading letters to the editor in the Coast Reporter lavishing praise on Sechelt’s new wastewater treatment plant, I am reminded of the political process chosen to build this facility, the most expensive public works project in our District’s history, which did not involve a single opportunity for the public to participate prior to the final decision.
I am then further reminded of the original assurances that the project financing was in perfect order, only to be later asked to vote in a financing referendum to approve newly discovered necessary financial arrangements once the plant was irrevocably half built.
This goes to the accountability of our current mayor and majority group on council, some seeking re-election, who seem to have a propensity to want to work unnecessarily behind closed doors. This same council recently proposed large changes to important zoning bylaws with completely inadequate prior public participation, this after working with one single stakeholder extensively for a long period.
On Nov. 15 we should elect a mayor and council who respect full public participation, openness and the accountability that we the taxpayers of Sechelt deserve.
Neil Edmunds, Sechelt
