I am concerned that the proposal to pave Provincial Highway #361 from number 9 to the R.M. of Browning is not a good use of the R.M of Moose Creek's $1.9 million in ratepayer's money or in-kind contributions for the following reasons:
1. It is a provincial highway and not our responsibility.
2. Pavement would primarily benefit Browning/Lampman residents and businesses.
3. If the Council seriously thinks we should be involved in maintaining provincial highways, then there are far worse roads that need repair such as 361 east, which at times is very dangerous.
4. Very few Moose Creek ratepayers use this road.
5. Over 100 ratepayers signed a petition to hold a binding referendum on this issue which represents nearly 40% of the adult population of the RM. As far as I can tell there is almost no support amongst ratepayers for this project.
6. The agreement signed by the RM is not binding, as it appears open to amendments or cancellation.
By Council voting to ignore the binding petition to hold a referendum, the Council has violated the spirit, if not the legal requirements of the Municipal Act. More importantly, Council has chosen to ignore ratepayers and essentially told them their opinions don't count.
If Council has any arguments in favour of paving 361 west, ratepayers need to hear them. And Council needs to defend them in a public meeting.
One of the responsibilities of a good R.M. Council is to regularly consult with ratepayers and publicly discuss major issues and plans. We have heard very little from Council on this issue and in my opinion it appears as if we have been purposely kept in the dark. Governance of this type often leads to unnecessary conflict. It is far better to be open and accountable. Unfortunately, there have been other recent examples of issues that I think have been handled poorly by Council.I appreciate the work of RM 33 Council. It is often a thankless job. Too often you only hear from ratepayers when they are angry and critical. But that is part of the job.
I am sorry to say that I have lost confidence in the Reeve and the current Council. I think it is time to for them to seriously evaluate their ability to carry on the business of the R.M. and act in the best interest of the ratepayers and residents of the R.M. of Moose Creek.
Sincerely,
Ian Cushon
Oxbow, SK
