PUBLIC INPUT CRUCIAL TO CREATING A BETTER FUTURE
On the surface, two stories in this week's Times “ the major South Okanagan drug bust and FortisBC's switch to a better plan for increasing electricity for Osoyoos' east side “ don't appear to be related.
In substance, they're not. But in what they signify for public involvement in high-profile local issues, they certainly are.
These two stories demonstrate just how important citizens' input is in ensuring a good future for our town and region.
In the case of the drug bust, information provided to police officers during their months-long investigation helped put them in a position to swoop down on three Oliver houses last week. The multi-agency task force says the investigation is continuing and we can expect more arrests “ and they make a point of stressing that people should continue to provide information to police forces or through programs like Crimestoppers.
In the Fortis case, the power company surprised everyone at last week's hearing by saying it had heard the public opposition to its proposed expansion of power lines along Highway 3 across the Main Street bridge, and it was therefore switching to a more palatable option that will bring power to east Osoyoos from Oliver down the east side of the lake.
Both cases highlight the key role public opinion plays in shaping the future of Osoyoos and region. In one, we must be good neighbours and citizens, noting suspicious activities and giving the authorities information they need in order to keep our streets and communities safe for ourselves and our children. In the other, we must be more aware as customers, pointing out weaknesses in plans made by utilities or governments and providing constructive alternatives that will serve the town better.
The lesson of both of these stories is: We each have a crucial role to play “ so play your part.
