Editor, The News:
Re: City moves against homeless camp (The News, May 12).
I am writing to complain about the drug abuse issue that is festering in Maple Ridge. Yes, even though many people on council would prefer to disguise the problem as a homeless issue, it really is a drug abuse issue.
We purchased a condo on the Haney Bypass of Maple Ridge in August 2014 for our daughter to live in. What a mistake it has turned out to be.
Our building has been plagued with theft, break-ins, vandalism, and security issues. We have had prostitutes and drug addicts doing their thing in our parking lot, emergency stairwell, and in the immediate area around and across from our building.
Drug paraphernalia, human waste, and used condoms can often be found in the area. What a wonderful place to live and raise a family.
We have spent thousands of dollars repairing damage, replacing stolen property, and beefing up our security, and anticipate having to spend tens of thousands more to harden our building.
The problem was bad enough when the druggies were at the Cliff Avenue encampment and in the low-barrier shelter. Now that they have taken up new digs just up the street from us, in new tents, we anticipate the problem will become unbearable.
My daughter, who less than three years ago moved to Maple Ridge, bragging about the wonderful community, is now preparing to move out of town.
I am giving strong consideration to selling our condo and repurchasing elsewhere, as are several other taxpaying residents of our building.
And whenever we mention owning in Maple Ridge to friends, family or business associates, the first thing they want to discuss is the drug and crime issue in your community. I was told just last week that it is the new Downtown Eastside.
Maple Ridge is fast becoming the laughing stock of the Lower Mainland, and not a place you would want to live, run a business, or invest in.
A zero tolerance, tough, hard, relentless enforcement of the law and bylaws with a concentrated effort is needed now.
Perry Coleman
Maple Ridge