I was greatly surprised to read about the tireless efforts of Qualicum Beach Coun. Neil Horner on behalf of young families (letters to the editor, Nov. 8).
When he had the opportunity to support the construction of 30 modest homes within walking distance of Qualicum Beach Elementary, he chose instead to tell the developer to create a proposal for 10 large, expensive homes which was put forward in the subsequent council meeting.
Horner was effusive in praising his foresight that evening, saying the Laburnum development will be “quaint” and “one of the nicest neighbourhoods in Qualicum.” I was unaware that quaint was synonymous with prohibitively expensive.
Similarly, I am unaware of any recent efforts to further diversify our local economy that extend beyond self-congratulatory platitudes, and I am unaware of any effort begun by this council to create affordable housing that extend beyond homilies. Within the three previous council meetings, the only items which involved youth or young families were for recreation. Council has shown such a disconnect from the reality that youth and young families face with unaffordable rents and prices for homes relative to wages that council’s suggestions are thrown out with an insouciance that borders on flippancy.
Public service is something anyone can sign up for, but the responsibilities of elected office require hard work and serious deliberation to perform effectively. In Qualicum Beach, the council chamber is increasingly devolving into an echo chamber.
Scott Harrison
Qualicum Beach