LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Monday, January 8th, 2001


I would like to comment on the blatant lack of both respect and democratic policy that our elected town council has for its constituents. It is truly unbelievable.

My husband and I attended the January 8th public QB Town Council meeting.

We listened as four very eloquent and informed members of our community presented their heartfelt concerns to council regarding the proposed logging on District Lot 10. Addressed in these presentations were:

• concerns about fertilizers, dioxins and toxins being introduced into our community watershed, and the necessity of a Watershed Assessment
  
•  concerns regarding the impact of the proposed logging on First Nation’s sacred cultural and heritage sites, 
  
• concerns regarding the impact of proposed logging on the endangered species of fish and local wildlife which are dependent upon both the forest and the Little Qualicum River for their survival, 
  
• and, importantly, the fact that, in a volunteer petition survey of many of the homes in Qualicum Beach and surrounding area, over 90% of the residents are, in fact, opposed to the proposed logging on District Lot 10!

Near the end of the meeting, after listening to the delegation’s serious concerns and passionate pleas that the Council give further thought and research to this widely impacting matter, Councilor Anton Kruyt simply moved that the council support Weyerhauser’s proposed logging plan for DL 10 along the Little 

Qualicum River. This motion was seconded by Councilor Marlys Diamond, with Councilor Scott Rodway lending his vote as well.

During Monday night’s meeting, Weyerhauser told council that they will be holding an open house, to inform the public of their logging plans for DL 10. 

In addition to the current petition, this would provide an opportunity for the people of Qualicum Beach to express their concerns to both Weyerhauser and town council. 

It is Weyerhaeuser’s professional and ethical responsibility, to satisfy for certain, our legitimate concerns about their plan for our watershed, by initiating a Level 3 Watershed Analysis. 

Only at this time, after considering the findings of this assessment, should town council then communicate the wishes of the community to Weyerhaeuser.

As an elected voice for all of the people of Qualicum Beach, (not only the retired foresters) WHY ISN’T COUNCIL LISTENING?

The concerned Neighbors of the Little Qualicum River aren’t raising their voices to hear themselves speak. We have grave concerns about the continual degradation to the environment that sustains our survival! 

We are speaking out for the health, quality of life (and water) and well being of the entire community! 



Elidah Jewer
Qualicum Beach BC
(250) 752 1833