I called the Southeast False Creek development office and asked a few questions out of personal curiosity/interest only.
I agree with earlier comments that it may be too late to stop the work since it’s already begun. However it’s a good learning experience for all of us to pay more attention to what is going on. Although, in this case the public doesn’t seem to have been given the chance to voice their opinions or concerns ahead of time…..so maybe it’s a good idea to let them know you wanted at least a chance to speak your mind first. Let's try to keep them honest.
I think the conversation I had with this person made me even more curious as to how the decision to spend $2M for an unplanned island came about. I realize some of my questions are probably the result of not knowing what discretion the city actually has when it comes to creating and spending budgets before (or if) they have to get public approval. (I guess I need to better educate myself).
How much money can the city allocate to a project without the public being made aware first? The city advised the public of every other step in this process through public planning sessions and newspaper articles– why not this one? She could not referr me to any documents for the public because she wasn't aware of any having ever been drawn up.
According to the person I spoke to, she said in the original plan (and budget) they were planning to remove some old dock where this new island is being built, and then it was brought to their attention that under and/or around this existing dock there was potential for natural habitat there. That was the beginning of the island idea. According to her, it was an organization called B.E.R.K. that originally suggested this island (Whatever or whoever they are- she wasn't sure and I don't know either.)
She even mentioned that not everyone involved in the project internally was expecting this either. So, who really made the call on this $2M expense?
Additional questions for the city if you are contacting them:
Did anyone actually consider other options before spending this money? For example:
– Spending $2M on cleaning up the water?
– Spending $2M on affordable housing for the poor and/or middle income families to enjoy the new area?
NOTE: The original plan allowed for 1/3 low income housing, 1/3 middle income, 1/3 high end.
TODAY the plan (according to this person I spoke to) is about 100 low income units and the rest high end.
– Did the engineers consider the width of the waterway and how much room will be left?
– Safety. Apparently, there will be no bridge or walkway to this island. Only accessible depending on the tide. --Hmmmm – anyone want to swim in False Creek?
Keep in mind the person I spoke to was not in a position of authority, she works in that department. The best person to get hold of with your concerns would be Jody Andrews as mentioned in above posts.
Maybe they thought it would be a good idea for all the dragon-boaters, squatters and homeless to get together and play the next Survivor – False Creek Island???
Ok. Nuff said by me. Have a good weekend everyone
