EDITOR,

Re. “Prior eyes Blind Channel path,” Chief, Oct. 11.

As a community, we talk a lot about economic development and rejuvenating the downtown. One of the most basic ways to do that is to replace eyesores with more attractive spaces. The Blind Channel is a prime example of a place that could be beautiful, but the overgrowth, weeds, and chain-link fence make it nothing more than a half-kilometre-long eyesore that sits within one short block of our main street. Turning this into a pedestrian-friendly area gives people a perfect place to enjoy the view of the water and the majesty of the Chief. A more aesthetically pleasing downtown will attract more area residents and make a better impression with visitors.

I would also like to see the numerous vacant lots spruce up their appearance by putting an onus on the owners of downtown vacant lots to maintain their properties and show the same level of pride in our town that we as residents do. Could a legal requirement not be created to require them to maintain their property to the same standard that the residents hold themselves to?

I hope Coun. Prior’s initiative can get traction. It’s a first step in making downtown more attractive. Remember: you only get one chance to make a first (and often lasting) impression.

Jeff Cooke

Garibaldi Highlands