Welcome to summer... I think! My planter is planted at City Hall and is looking bright and cheery.
In regards to my opposition to disc golf on the cemetery property it is not the sport, it is the location. I have never seen the sport played but would like to try it when a suitable location is secured.
The cemetery property includes all of the area between the former Burlington Northern Rail right-of-way and Highway 3A to Salmo. This whole area is designated as cemetery by city bylaw. This bylaw also restricts sports from being played in the cemetery.
I am not opposed to disc golf; my opposition is to the course being built on cemetery property. The area they wish to use is east of the cemetery burial area. They are not asking to use any of the area of the cemetery that is currently used for burials. I was not at the presentation to council, but I have read all the material given to us and I do know the area they wish to use. I have also spoken to Mike Moor on two occasions to explain my reasons for voting in opposition to their proposal.
There are other areas of the city that I suggested they consider. The city has a large section of land south of the cemetery, out of the city limits, with access from Highway 3A by the Welcome to Nelson sign. This area is completely isolated from the cemetery. They could also consider using Rosemont Park with Kiwanis Club and neighborhood approval.
There needs to be input from all community groups and residents with regards to any area that is proposed for disc golf before any bylaws are changed or use is permitted. The idea of constructing a temporary disc golf course on cemetery property, even if only for a trail run, is in opposition to our bylaw. We are then setting a precedent. The public has not been well informed as witnessed by me with the number of phone calls, conversations and emails that I have received in opposition to the proposal.
The Boomtown mural at 510 Hall Street which was on council’s agenda in April was approved with several conditions. The Nelson Star reported that I voted against the mural compromise. I felt I had to because the resolution presented to council for approval contained four sections. I did not agree with two so the only thing I could do was vote no to the entire resolution. I am not against the mural and think it should be allowed to remain as is. The business owner will now have to paint over the garage door pillars to meet this resolution.
I hope everyone had a great long weekend and that summer has finally arrived. My granddaughters and I need to finish planting the Adams Family garden.
Bob Adams is a city councilor who shares column space in the Nelson Star.