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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver, Friday March 7, 2008 - 7 North Park critic responds Editor's note: The following letter was sent to Domenic Lunardo, Commissioner, Community Services and forwarded to the Oakvil e Beaver for publication. Thanks for your response (Town responds to criticism), which was published in the Oakville Beaver, Feb. 29. I just want to add two points which clarify our differences. From your comments, it is evident that the Town's emphasis continues to be on doing things right (efficiency, costs, opportunity), while I perceive that the priority should turn to doing the right things (creating healthy communities, sustainability, human mobility, happiness). As for the financing of the park, you repeat an argument stated at other times by senior staff and elected officials which is that "with 90 per cent of the costs funded from Development Charges, the financial impact on both current and future residents will be minimized." This is not accurate, as the financial impact is evident. Just the cost of the initial phase is equivalent to over $1,100 per existing households in all of Oakville. It is true that it will be paid by the builders through development charges, which then will be included in their costs that are passed on to the future residents in the price of the houses. Those development charges have nothing to do with the discussion, as the Town will receive those resources regardless of where the facilities are built. Our concern is that the Town should not cluster so many facilities in one place, creating a sport factory with 16 soccer fields, four arenas, ball fields, skateboard park, and others, when it could build the same amount of facilities but distributed throughout the North Oakville area from the border with Mississauga to the limits with Burlington. We need consistency from the Town in what we think, say and do. We need to plan and build every community as well as we know how; no excuses. This means people oriented cities, great for children and older adults (which will result in good for everyone else), minimizing traffic congestion and car dependency, walkable neighbourhoods, benefiting the environment, providing recreation for all, and focusing on healthy communities where its residents are happier. That will be our legacy to future generations. GIL PENALOSA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR WALK & BIKE FOR LIFE If you have a news tip or story idea, call the Oakville Beaver at 845-3824. WINTER SALE ON NOW! Allegro Allegro Starting From central vacuum central vacuum systems systems SUPER DELUXE ELECTRIC PACKAGE Made In Canada $ 249 CHAIR GALLERY · Choice of Fabric · Many Styles to Choose from $ 555 $599 Each HOMES UP TO 3,000 SQ. FT. OFFERING A FULL RANGE OF TOP QUALITY ACCESSORIES Up to 6,000 sq. ft., 10 year warranty Includes 30' electric hose, 3-way control switch, German made power head, full cleaning set (incl. floor attachment, wands and hose rack) Buy Factory Direct with Substantial Savings Proudly Made In Oakville For 12 Years 1338 SPEERS ROAD, OAKVILLE 905.825.3995 www.allegrovacuums.com Made In Canada $2398 Solid Birch Bedroom Suite Included: Queen Bed, 2 night tables & dresser. Choice of Stain TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR 2007 INVENTORY LIQUIDATION Our 2008 Stock has arrived Come See our clearance Warehouse for Great deals on Floor Models Sectionals, Armoires, Bedrooms, Dining Rooms, etc. 1029 Speers Rd., Oakville 905.842.3739 Speers Rd. & 4th Line (Main Location) VOTED #1 FURNITURE STORE WWW.JOSHUACREEKFURNITURE.COM