Dear Editor:
I would like to voice my displeasure relating to the future move the Osoyoos Museum has planned to move into the Home Building Centre building on Main Street.
This is a business that I have patronized and enjoyed doing business with in our span of the 17 years that we have lived in Osoyoos.
I would not disagree that the existing building the Osoyoos Museum now occupies is in need of repair.
However, the way builders work now, if the proper thought was given, many renowned builders in our area, if consulted, would have been more than happy to offer a solution, before this move into a quality downtown business takes place.
I am thinking the museum will be rewarded with a good chunk of change when their present property is advertised for sale.
That is all good. I just get the feeling that our many tourists will draw a negative perception when we have a museum on our ever-so-busy Main Street. I guess I am from the old school as my preference is for Main Street to offer merchants a place to show their wares and items for sale, not artifacts and items from days gone by to look at.
The tax rate on Main Street will no doubt be higher, which means local taxpayers will be paying the increased bills on this new property.
Those who support the museum have an answer to that and will no doubt answer the difference in tax rates will be covered by a grant.
Do they think we were all born at night? I was born at night, but I know where grant money comes from, and so do you – it all comes from the taxpayers’ pockets.
I am forwarding my phone number so I can take calls on this issue, either pro or con. I can be reached at 250-495-5377.
Don Brady
Osoyoos, B.C.
