Some of the comments from candidates and citizens during this election is depressing. They make it sound like this is a horrible place and nobody likes living here.
Someone wrote a letter to the editor saying White Rock isn’t as good as it used to be. I’ve lived here 30 years and I’ve listened to many stories from people who pioneered this community. So, I was left wondering… not as good as… when?
- Not as good as the 40′s when the whole area was essentially a clear cut?
- Not as good as the 50′s when they still had gravel roads?
- Not as good as the 60′s when they didn’t really have development planning?
- Not as good as the 70′s when White Rock was exploding in population growth (makes recent growth look like stagnation) as huge stretches of forest and pasture were being subdivided?
- Not as good as the 80′s when business was so bad on the beach that all businesses boarded up for the winter except the Legion and biker bar?
- Not as good as the 90′s when the town centre was hollowing out and buildings were being left to decay, despite huge investment by the City in wide sidewalks and garden beds?
Some candidates make it sound like citizens no longer have any pride in their community. I know that’s not true.
This is a great place to live. It’s safe, clean, attractive, and the people care about their neighbours. Yes, it could be even better. But let’s not forget how lucky we are to live in such a great community.