I am concerned that the Nov. 4 article “Vancouver neighborhoods oppose oil terminal” is misleading. While I cannot speak for all 66 neighborhoods referenced in the article, I can speak regarding one of the 12 neighborhoods that are listed as opposing the terminal. I attended the North Image Neighborhood Association meeting that resulted in this opposition stance. I and about 40 percent of the 13 or so present at that meeting cast dissenting votes. We likely share this sentiment with many residents, most of whom were not even aware a vote was being taken. Of concern to me was a general lack of information and notice to the residents.
What is more, a one-sided presentation was given just before a vote was pushed through without due diligence. I and a significant portion of that neighborhood meeting were not represented by the association’s formal and strong opposition. Most of the North Image community didn’t even know a vote was occurring, so how does that represent my North Image community? How many of the other 11 “opposing” neighborhoods have similar stories?
As my elected representative, feel free to make decisions you were elected to make, but never misrepresent my voice.
James Rogers
Vancouver
