Shawn Goodsell, right. (Lyonel Doherty photo)
We wouldn’t characterize Town staff reports as negative, as one councillor describes them.
They are thorough, but not negative.
Shawn Goodsell’s report on the downtown lot being considered for free parking was very thorough in identifying what needs to be done to fix it up in order to address the public liabilities. If he didn’t outline these liabilities to council, he would not have been doing his job properly.
Town staff are professionals who give their opinions, offer options and the opinions of experts. If the facts are perceived as negative, or contrary to council’s direction, it’s not a reflection of staff. Just like any media outlet, they present the facts and let the readers decide.
Concerning the downtown lot in question, there are definite liabilities that need to be rectified. If someone were to slip and suffer serious injury, the Town would be held liable. And you know how prevalent lawsuits are today. It’s better to list all of the liabilities so that council can make wise decisions.
And now to Station Street.
Town council is planning to close a popular section of Station Street (behind the Oliver Legion) for safety reasons.
Once again, Goodsell presented a thorough report but was criticized by a former member of council for disagreeing with council’s direction.
Goodsell’s report was backed up by a Ministry of Transportation technician who said closing this roadway would not be a good idea because it is well used. Furthermore, it provides an alternate route for vehicles and pedestrians travelling north of town.
This roadway is used responsibly by many people who want to avoid the congestion of Main Street. Some motorists may drive too fast on this road, making it hazardous for pedestrians, but the majority of drivers respect the rules and actually stop at the stop sign before entering the highway.
This issue will be decided when the Town completes its traffic calming measures study next year. It has already got a jump on it by proposing a four-way stop at Fairview Road and Spartan Street.
What many residents would like to see is better flow at the intersection of Fairview Road and Station Street. Seems like this area would be a great candidate for a round-about, which is a good traffic calming measure.
