Raise the Hammer

I just sent this to council:

Good morning Mr. Mayor and Councilors,

Having the latest "plan" to take advantage of the PanAm opportunity appear at the end of such a long and painful process is a relief, but more of a concern. You are now faced with possibly agreeing to what seems could please all parties, however it likely still compromises the goals and intent of the PanAm opportunity.

This is not a plan at all, yet. It is an idea, a theory, a concept. Until the details are fully revealed none of us will know the immediate and future costs to the city in both dollars, other sacrificed PanAm projects, and less tangible but most important community benefit. The manner and timing of which the "plan" was announced are at the very least suspicious, and should be regarded as such. Something stinks.

Though this whole subject weighs heavily on our agenda, we must remain more cautious than ever. Please do not be tempted to accept any proposal with carefully confirming we are not sacrificing more than ever to keep this struggling single private business afloat.

This decision must be made in the context of all of Hamilton's PanAm opportunities. I urge you to direct to preparation of two thorough plans before the Feb. 1 deadline; one that includes a scalable facility at West Harbour, and one that includes the latest Ivor Wynne concept. Only with this overall view of what we stand to sacrifice and to gain with either plan will a responsible decision be made.

The citizens of Hamilton are well aware of the undue influence of private interests in this issue. Unless the facts are laid bare during this process, council's legacy for this term will one of outright corruption.

I wish you all the wisdom, patience, and determination to see this through to what we'll all feel is a positive conclusion.

Thank you,