Cowichan - This is my first letter to the editor. I have always been content to let others in the community voice their opinions in the media while I did my bit through community organizations like Rotary, the Chamber and the United Way.
However, I find myself frustrated and confused by the whole topic of amalgamation.This idea has been debated since I moved to the Valley in 1986.It seems to me, as well as virtually everyone that I discuss this topic with, that our community would be better served with a joining of our local governments.I admit to not having all the facts and figures to make a definitive decision.That is why we elect people to serve on our behalf. They are supposed to represent us in collecting the facts and making decisions for the betterment of our communities.My fear is that some of the local councillors are serving their own interests, i.e. a job, over the interests of the community. Surely someone who is committed to doing what is best for the citizens they represent would want to know what those very people would like.What harm would come from a question on the ballot asking if amalgamation is an issue that the people of the Cowichan Valley would like to explore?There is no need to muddy the issue with wording about extensive costs and changes of boundaries. Just ask the simple question. "Would you like your local governments to look at the feasibility of amalgamating the City of Duncan and North Cowichan?" The communities of Alberni and Kamloops successfully amalgamated and are better for it. I hope that our representatives can look beyond their selfinterests and do what is right for the whole. Let's at least find out what the man on the street wants.Richard OdoCowichan