Both the Capital Regional District media release regarding the location of the Biosolids Energy Centre, and the comment by Denise Blackwell, the chairwoman of the CRD Core Area Liquid Waste Management Committee in the Times Colonist on March 28, indicate that the most cost-effective solution will also meet financial, environmental and social criteria.
However, social criteria have not been considered. Residents directly affected were not consulted for their input into social criteria, nor were any residents of any other municipalities contributing to the sewage treatment program. All social criteria in a cost-benefit analysis have been trumped by financial considerations in a decision that has already been made.
The loss of property taxes to Esquimalt resulting in higher taxes for residents, the loss of property values to owners, reduction of quality education at the nearby schools, loss of the right of personal and business property enjoyment due to increased infrastructure construction and operations, and disregard for community planning and development standards have all been considered secondary to CRD finances.
It is irresponsible for those who have the majority of votes on the CRD board to treat a small municipality in this manner. This is an inequitable burden on Esquimalt and shows a lack of long-term vision expected of a regional government, benefitting all municipalities in the region.
Which small municipality will be next?
Hy Freedman
Former Esquimalt councillor
Esquimalt
