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Council must focus on local issues

A discussion of the Enbridge Pipeline by Nelson city council is not a local issue.
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Opponents of the Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipeline gathered in front of Nelson City Hall on Monday. But a letter-writer says it's not something city council should concern itself with.

Re: “Council to formalize opposition,” July 13

A discussion of the Enbridge Pipeline by Nelson city council is not a local issue.

I find it disheartening to watch our fair city slowly fade away, as important issues to the residents of Nelson are convoluted by discussions that are federally and provincially administered.

More importantly, City of Nelson taxes are some of the highest in the province. Certainly this is evident by the glut of properties for sale. Baby boomers are leaving to be with their families in centers offering so much more.

Could it be that council’s time might better be spent on attracting businesses that our young people might find employment?

Could it be that council’s time might better be spent on welcoming approved developers with vision allowing seniors and regular folks to see a movie in their home-town?

Could it be that council’s time might better be spent attracting business to lower the tax rate for homeowners? Could it be that council’s time might better be spent administering the City of Nelson?

The Enbridge Pipeline discussion does not belong at the Council table.

The Hanford Nuclear “waste zone” is down the street, do we hear about it next?

Businesses on Baker Street, and for that matter, surrounding Nelson, are closing, people are leaving, and other closures are imminent. Nelson has become well known across the country for welcoming vagabonds and other individuals supported by our tax dollars.

Nelson could be so much more with a vision for the future and a concerted effort to have a vibrant community.

Please enjoy your time on Council, and deal with the real issue — survival of the community itself.

Len Folkard, Nelson