As a new resident in Parksville and my second Christmas season here, I keep wondering why the City of Parksville does nothing to dress up the town with lights, bows, etc. to give some festivity to the area.
Sad to see that those elected cannot see the importance of showing some initiative and lead the way by doing something, like dress up the trees at the entrance of Community Park with lights, a sign that says ‘Welcome and Happy Holidays,’ bows on light standards or put up some holiday banners.
Along the highway, the first-time visitor sees vacant buildings with for lease signs in the windows.
Can there not be some incentive by city hall to these building owners, encouraging them to lower their rent for a short period of time, allowing local artisans, crafters to rotate through these spaces and have the opportunity to stop people from driving through the downtown core and start walking it more, perhaps even having a portion of the proceeds go to a charity?
The downtown Parksville area has potential but nothing is being done.
Last Christmas season I heard about the Ladysmith Christmas lights and was astonished that a population smaller than the Parksville area can do something so dramatic.
People are making special trips to the area, supporting local businesses there while they are there seeing the light displays.
Even Qualicum Beach looks festive and it makes you want to get out and walk the streets and visit the various shops.
Some of the local businesses in Parksville are doing their part by decorating the inside of their shops, but the streets along the highway and side streets are anything but dramatic.
I have contacted one city hall elected official with my question and have yet to receive a reply.
I guess they forget that they are elected and they need to start leading by example and do they not realize that by dressing up the area they could also help local businesses by making Parksville and area a destination during the winter season.
Larry StuartParksville