Kentville's Bonavista park will cost all town taxpayers

For those who thought the Bonavista Playground issue had nothing to do with you, think again. The Parks and Recreation Department proposed $50,000.00 to construct a playground in Bonavista. After the current administration hacked many areas of the proposed town budget to save money, $25,000 managed to survive for a playground in a problematic location that a majority oppose. It will be interesting to see what items were affected to make this happen.

If the bylaws involving Parkland, which includes fencing for residents, and proper accessibility for handicapped people are adhered to, this project could easily surpass the initial proposal by a ridiculous amount. Remember this location is surrounded by homes and is not easily accessible. At the only adjacent landowner’s meeting hosted by town, their reps agreed “all or nothing” would apply. Meaning: no fencing no playground, or vice versa. Citizens of Kentville should be asking Couns. Kehoe, Pearl and Bolland, Deputy Mayor Honey, and Mayor Corkum why they placed Bonavista above other more needy areas for a playground.

Why have they aggressively pushed this playground against a majority opposition and avoided addressing legitimate concerns? How can an elected official make a decision that will impact so many residents without discussing it thoroughly with them first, or actually visiting the secluded site with them? If none of this makes sense, then you are on the right track. Residents from Palmeter have recently asked for a playground as well, and they were told no funds were available. Yet the town is attempting to force this expensive playground upon a group of seniors and retiring members of this community, regardless of the legitimate facts opposing it. Why not finish the Park Street sidewalk, or improve the swimming pool for many to enjoy?

Many of us presented several options to the town and some park proponents for the betterment of this community, including an alternate location proposal with financial assistance, but no healthy discussions ensued. It was stifled and not supported by some representatives from their clique or some town officials.

Citizens of this fine town should be concerned if local “politicians” are allowed to make decisions by excluding public input and ignoring the concerns of many residents.

Respectfully,

Greg Baldwin

Bonavista Resident