Aldergrove Star Letters
I want to touch on two letters in today's Aldergrove Star.
The first, from Erik Simonsen, talks about the Aldergrove sewer upgrade project and says, "The sewage from Aldergrove is not the problem, it was the Township opting for the least expensive solution to the Gloucester sewage that caused it to be pumped down to Aldergrove."
This is not really the case. For years, the Township has sent Gloucester and Aldergrove sewage east to Abbotsford, but that municipality made it clear they were no longer interested in treating the waste. They have steadily increased fees to the point where it is now more cost effective to go west. There is also an added benefit of being a place where the Metro Vancouver and Abbotsford systems can connect in case of (heaven forbid) an emergency of some type.
Aldergrove's sewer system is aging and has some significant infiltration issues that we need to resolve. This will also be addressed.
Meanwhile, Harvey Schultz writes his idea to revitalize Aldergrove:
I do think the Township has to lead the way in this process. Like Dianne Watts moving Surrey City Hall to their new downtown in order to encourage developers to work there, we need to invest in a major facility or attraction in Aldergrove to send a signal to the community that we're committed there for the long haul. (We also need the sewer line upgraded so builders can even think about these projects.) We're working toward this.
The first, from Erik Simonsen, talks about the Aldergrove sewer upgrade project and says, "The sewage from Aldergrove is not the problem, it was the Township opting for the least expensive solution to the Gloucester sewage that caused it to be pumped down to Aldergrove."
This is not really the case. For years, the Township has sent Gloucester and Aldergrove sewage east to Abbotsford, but that municipality made it clear they were no longer interested in treating the waste. They have steadily increased fees to the point where it is now more cost effective to go west. There is also an added benefit of being a place where the Metro Vancouver and Abbotsford systems can connect in case of (heaven forbid) an emergency of some type.
Aldergrove's sewer system is aging and has some significant infiltration issues that we need to resolve. This will also be addressed.
Meanwhile, Harvey Schultz writes his idea to revitalize Aldergrove:
Mayor Alberts' referral to the town square concept would suffice adequately for 272 St east. Young folks theme in the west side. Plus other adequate amenities as a fill in. Perhaps a community gym. With a business plan on hand so we the citizen of Langley and Aldergrove who may have to ante up a degree more can pass a yes or no or maybe. We all want what is best for our Langley, regardless where we live. The days of appeasement must come to some positive resolve. Time to show some well justified maturity by all. The investment must be made now before things go further awry. All on a prorated basis. No gleaming allowed please. No little red hen syndrome by politicians either. A total community initiative. Put our money where our mouth is community spirit. There are many in development business that took out plenty including the township hall where it all starts. They can be good citizens and give some back. Partially, the township hall who has the hand on the stick of control. Some more balance please. No more political games please.
I do think the Township has to lead the way in this process. Like Dianne Watts moving Surrey City Hall to their new downtown in order to encourage developers to work there, we need to invest in a major facility or attraction in Aldergrove to send a signal to the community that we're committed there for the long haul. (We also need the sewer line upgraded so builders can even think about these projects.) We're working toward this.
posted by Jordan Bateman @ 7:49 AM
