Editor:
A few weeks ago, I sent in a letter to the Outlook in the June 20 edition in response to a fellow Banffite about the pedestrian zone in Banff. And because of that, I got slapped on the wrist for sharing my opinion and my experiences as a long-time resident of Banff by email or in person.
That's what's going on in Banff if you don't go along with the socialist and capitalist viewpoints, you're not a good citizen. The Town of Banff and some businesses have lost reality, in my view. They have allowed greed to be the only thing they care about and make excuses that they are doing the greater good for the environment and fighting climate change, but in reality, this is not the case whatsoever in my opinion.
I will ask the people of Banff how a two-block pedestrian zone can save the integrity of the national park, and have a free joy ride with your bike helping our town? How are idling cars stuck in traffic congestion on our side roads and across the town helping to fight climate change? I cannot believe that most people are that blind and have such a thirst for money that they are willing to risk the safety and well-being of their fellow neighbours and friends and fellow tourists so they can make a huge profit.
I will say this. I sure hope none of you will ever have to have an emergency of any kind or Banff have to evacuate as Jasper did. That's why I agree with Bob Sandford's viewpoints in his OpEd in the July 25 edition of the Outlook about what is enough business and tourism and I will add why is safety not a priority by our leaders in Banff. I can't tell you what to vote for, but I sure hope the events of Jasper will help you make up your mind.
Landan Semenok,
Banff
