The Editor,
Re: "Adversity is exhausting our city," the Now, Jan. 9.
The tragic death of Julie Paskall is almost too painful to bear. However, the citizens of Surrey have come together in a show of support and respect for themselves and everyone who calls Surrey home. Voices that would normally have remained silent are speaking out. No idea or suggestion is too small or unimportant. Where a troubled community might be forgiven for lashing out, they have not. Rather, they have come together asking intelligent questions, seeking support and solutions.
The support they need has not yet come from our civic leaders. I am the first to admit that I do not always agree with Coun. Barinder Rasode. However, she and others deserve our respect for meeting this challenge head on and for going it alone.
Many are surprised that the mayor and most of council have been silent on Newton. Perhaps it is convenient to blame hired consultants for "managing the news" for saying things not meant to be said.
One thing is for sure, many of Dianne Watts' supporters are asking questions about her judgment and leadership. Additionally, veteran councillors cannot continue to sit idly by doing nothing. I hope this mayor and council find their voices and establish their footing quickly. They need to act assertively and meet this challenge. If they don't, this administration will be forever known as the most popular failure the City of Surrey has ever known.
M. Proskow, Surrey