Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to sometimes agree and other times disagree on policy decisions that our Mayor and Council adopt. It is also possible to disagree and still appreciate the effort that our elected officials put forth in the service of our community. The idea that one must take sides in any political process in an impediment to the optimal functioning of our community.

Of particular note is the current playground mentality that is occurring in our community between the majority of the current council and the CLC. If someone is watching, then I am embarrassed.

An example — “all too often special interest groups like the CLC are allowed to spread their particular brand of brand of political belief among voters without being challenged.”

Allowed? That’s called democracy and freedom. Without being challenged? Last time I checked, I can still disagree and put forth the reasons.

Spreading half truths, misinformation, and innuendo? “We don’t need the intervention by special interest groups into our city politics who are only interested in their own political agenda vis a vis the political parties in the City of Vancouver” Huh?

I say let’s grow up and accept that politics is a part of our society and that we are all allowed to voice our opinion. Disagreeing with a policy decision or a political ideology is not the same as a personal attack on someone’s integrity. If that is the insinuation then it does need to be challenged. There are mechanisms in place to deal with those. Other than that let’s get informed of everyone’s position on various issues, respect that people are free to hold different views, and agree or disagree at the ballot box next time.

Ralph Perrich

Cranbrook