Re: “Esquimalt residents get pitch in the mail to reconsider plant,” July 10.
I heard loud and clear from citizens of Esquimalt and the region that the entrance of Victoria/Esquimalt Harbour was not an appropriate site for a large sewage plant. As such I voted no to the Capital Regional District zoning application.
So now the CRD thinks that if it increases the “bribe” to the citizens of Esquimalt, they will now say: “Wow, more money our way! What the heck — for money we will override our principles.”
If the CRD had accepted the conditions in our Bylaw 2806, there would be a shovel in the ground right now.
The cost of the “amenities” at that time was estimated at $14 million. However, $7.5 million was for a heat-loop project. However, if Esquimalt decided not to take the heat loop, it would lose the $7.5 million. Without the heat loop, Esquimalt’s conditions were not excessive.
Now they offer $19 million of your and my tax dollars to buy off Esquimalt? Go figure.
It appears the CRD thinks paying off people is much simpler than having a wholesome consultation.
I agree with our mayor that the door is now open to looking at other options that will meet both the federal and provincial governments’ guidelines on sewage treatment. With this door open, we should be looking at solutions, not offering bribes.
David Schinbein, councillor
Esquimalt
