Re: “Let the downtown breathe,” Letters, June 27
I am a member of Nelson’s Heritage Commission. Far from being “one of a select few” I am a volunteer and downtown business owner.
Nelson thrives on the efforts of its volunteers in everything from sports to city commissions.
The Heritage Commission is not monolithic. It is comprised of people from diverse backgrounds and functions as a democratic group.
In my experience members do appreciate the mix of past and present.
I would encourage Kate Bridger and others to attend Touchstones Museum’s current exhibit, Baker Street: Then and Now in order to get a true sense of how preservationists and the people of Nelson have had a vision of the future linked to the past.
Individual creative visions do play a role in Nelson’s vibrancy, however appreciation of architectural heritage is an essential part of any modern city’s design standards.
In Nelson’s case, Baker Street is the only area that will be required to adhere to heritage design guidelines reviewed in the future, not by a democratic group but exclusively by city staff.
City commissions are being reviewed and revamped to reflect emerging priorities.
It should also be noted the Heritage Commission does not review sandwich board applications.
Brenton Raby
Nelson