Dear Editor:
In regards to the article "Voice Against Head Start Homes" in the September 12 issue, I feel the comments made were very prejudiced and discriminatory. How does one make the assumption that because someone is purchasing more affordable housing that they are automatically of "different socio-economical status"? With the homes in York Colony starting around the $260,000 mark, they are hardly being given away to just anyone. Individuals will need to qualify for a mortgage, proving to have good credit. My husband and I were both born and raised in this community and are just as hard working as the next person. With the high cost of homes presently on the market- for someone like myself and my husband who are just starting out- we are especially grateful to be able to have the opportunity to purchase a new home at a price we can comfortably afford.
In reference to the development affecting "already full area school enrollments", as Mayor Wilson pointed out, this could become an issue no matter where new homes are built. As I recall, the last time schools became full, we built a new one to accommodate. Yorkton is expanding and I think growth is essential for every community. To suggest that mixing people of "different socio-economic status" can cause problems in school is highly prejudiced and stereotypical. I think children can cause problems regardless of what background they come from, or how much money they have in their bank account. If it's being suggested that people of different status should not attend the same school, or live in the same neighborhood, the other option would be segregation which in my opinion is discriminating, degrading and immoral.
I agree - this is a community for everyone and I am thankful to be able to continue living here. As some people are afraid of change, I think it is exciting and refreshing to see the new construction, both commercial and residential.
Maeghan Kuemper
Yorkton, Sask.
