Raise the Hammer

I must say that I was a bit perplexed that RTH would allow a blog submission from a Councillor who's Ward will be home to the heavily-debated Velodrome. The post almost reads as if we were in 2014, and a municipal election was in a few months :)

That said, congrats should be given to his writer who very carefully crafted a 'motherhood' contribution on why the proposed velodrome would be nothing short of a positive addition to Hamilton's recreational facilities.

Unfortunately, tucked nicely into the post is a statement which holds some curious undertones on the Veledrome's viability/profitability with the following statement regarding the existing facilities in Hamilton: "None of these facilities make money. They are subsidized; however, they provide for a healthier community and a higher quality of life." This statement could lead one to believe that the citizens of Hamilton will be subsidizing the veledrome for years to come...all in the name of a healthier community.

Since discussions on why the process arrived at its current state of angst is not up for discussion, perhaps the Councillor could elaborate further on what the citizens of Hamilton can do to make this goal a reality? Other than just sit idlely by nodding our heads with aimless appreciation for a veledrome, absent of its costs and tax implications.

Like many, I too would like nothing more than to see a world-class cycling (and most recently published in The Spec - multi-use facility) in Hamilton. But I'd also like to see LRT become a reality; improved infrastructure in our roads and waste-water; better connectivity between the Mountain and the lower-cities; higher commercial tax base to minimize residential tax levies...the list continues.

Perhaps, as the Councillor's post suggests, a veledrome will assist in bringing some of those wishlist items to fruition. But then again, so too are the new Ivor Wynne stadium; all-day two-way GO train service; the LINC/RHP expressways; Copps Coliseum...the list continues.

At some point, we have to stop looking for the "magic answer" to our percieved woes.