I was shocked to read that Victoria city council is proposing to charge the Canadian Pacific Lawn Bowling Club $500 per year for the continued use of the historic green behind the Crystal Garden.
Even more shocking is the logic behind this proposal - that the city should be earning revenue from recreational use of downtown park land because it is "prime urban real estate." What next? User fees for a stroll through Beacon Hill Park? Toll gates on the Dallas Road waterfront walkway?
Even worse, the city appears to be reopening the whole debate as to whether it should de-dedicate this property as park land and sell the land for condo development. Do they not even understand the concept of a "park" - land that has been set aside in perpetuity for public recreation and enjoyment? I thought this was settled five years ago. The public will not tolerate the loss of park land.
People do enjoy this park, even if they are not lawn bowlers or croquet players. Tourists and residents alike stop to watch the folks in their traditional white garb, or just smile as they drive by. Better yet, anyone, young and old, can join the club and participate in these healthy and sociable activities. It is a non-profit organization open to anyone who wants to join.
Bill Huot
Victoria
