The letter in the paper on November 9 "Haldi Road bias" I find quite amusing.
In my 18 years as a councillor for this fine city, I do not recall writing a letter to the paper.
I do not know the writer Dean Marsters, but I offer the following points:
I have lived in Prince George for 45 years, having been active in public life most of that time.
Consequently, I know many people on both sides of the matter, a circumstance that most of the councillors face on each of the serious matters that come before council.
At first and second reading I worked to ensure that the proponents and the opponents were clear on the detail of the discussion.
At third reading I worked to ensure that both the proponents and the opponents had a meaningful understanding of the detail being positioned by council prior to the vote on the matter.
It is important to note the depth of preparation undertaken by each member of the council team in preparing for the serious matters that come before council.
I find it amusing to note that I have never lived in the Haldi Road area, and even more amusing, it is common knowledge that I have concluded my time on council and will not be "opting out" as suggested by the letter.
For the record, I did not support the position of the proponents, and would note that the video stream of the discussion will show that I said, "...a great idea but in the wrong place."
It would have been valuable if the writer had done some basic research on the proceedings and then submitted a letter that provided accuracy and accountability.
In closing, I applaud the letter of the same date by Tim Richards. Short, to the point, positive, accurate and upbeat.
Something Prince George deserves.
Don Bassermann
Prince George
