The mayor informs us that the various documents have been completed and council has applied for the multi-million dollar loan to construct the underpass.
Would it not be a good idea for council to organize a public forum which would allow the taxpayers of Salmon Arm to be informed of the full facts as to how the money is going to be spent?
Most people realize that there will be an overspend and that it will be for the benefit of the vehicle owner and not the pedestrian. Incidents involving pedestrians far outnumber those involving vehicles.
So, perhaps a pedestrian underpass would be a better idea. Let us have some professional engineers and knowledgeable people on the stage who can inform us of the good and the bad points, and the consequences of having the underpass built.
Related: City sets stage for underpass referendum
Don’t let us just drift into a Brexit type scenario where all of the facts are not explained fully.
If as a result of the forum, council decides to hold a referendum, let the result stand and proceed as decided.
At least it would be an end to the conversation and council can proceed with the support of the majority of the tax payers.
The cost of a referendum compared to the millions spent on the underpass would be minimal.
If Transport Canada or some other government body has instructed us to upgrade the rail crossings, inform us of the facts and consequences at the forum.
Ambulances and fire trucks take longer to get to Gleneden or the surrounding area than it does to cross the tracks.
Let us not jump to satisfy the few people living across the tracks who knew that the crossing was there when they moved, with the promises made by previous councils regarding access.
Tony Gay
@SalmonArm
newsroom@saobserver.net
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