We don't get this chance very often but in October we have the opportunity to rid ourselves of the local politicians who in the past have banded together to thwart the will of the very people who elected them. The list of grievances we the taxpayers have is growing under this leadership that doesn't work.

Let me cite a few, sale of PDI, casino, the sports complex we are building for Trent University, George St. ( imcoe and Charlotte are hardly driveable) ,Ashborough subdivision and the list goes on.

If one has been following the actions of this council it is apparent that the council has been dominated by the mayor and five other councillors ( one of whom is not seeking re-election) who have for whatever reasons continually gone against the will of the electorate . We elected them to work for us not themselves.

These six tell us they did they did their homework and acted on our behalf but I honestly believe that is a fallacy. Look at the new subdivision for instance.

The entrepunuer from Shanghai would not have invested $11 million in that property and purchased another 15 acres for a million dollars if he did not have guarantees of his subdivision passing prior to its proposal at council. To me it was a done deal, rubber stamped by council. This is an area that needs a lot more studies re traffic movement, water runoff and flooding, emergency services access due to one-lane bridges, the tunnel and swing bridges, school accommodations for 700 dwellings. How much planning or forthought went in this decision? Looks like there wasn't too much homework done here. But our mayor threatened council that the owner had only to apply to the successor of the OMB to get approval, despite the lack of research into 700 dwellings in this vulnerable area. His intimidation worked, all but three councillors rubber stamped it.

I would sincerely hope that the people of our fair city have long memories when it comes to this election, There are five members there that in my opinion have done us a great disservice and lack credibility as councillors and do not deserve our trust again.

To Mr. Baldwin and Mr. Riel thank you for your defense of Ashburnham.

Bill Ayotte, East City