Editor, The News:
Re: Mayor Walters will not run again (The News, Aug. 29).
It was disappointing, if not surprising, to learn that Pitt Meadows Mayor Deb Walters will not be running for office in November.
As a first-term Maple Ridge councillor, I have had many occasions to work with and, at local community and provincial meetings and affairs, socialize with Mayor Walters. She has always been extremely helpful, thoughtful and collaborative, while at the same time strongly representing the best interests of her community.
On joint projects, such as the current work to bring post secondary education to our communities, she has been a great contributor and voice at the table.
I recall one of the first times I spoke with Mayor Walters, and, in my innocence and inexperience, I asked if it might not be better for our two communities to join together as one. Let’s just say that her answer was completely unambiguous, and I didn’t ask again.
Best wishes Mayor Walters. You have served your community well, with dedication, integrity, hard work, humour and enthusiasm. May you truly enjoy the next phase of your life, with a lot more time for family and relaxation.
Coun. Bob Masse
Maple Ridge
‘An affront’
Editor, The News:
Re: Mayor Walters will not run again (The News, Aug. 29).
Mayor Deb Walters’ announcement that she will not seek re-election this November will undoubtedly be welcomed by a majority of residents in Pitt Meadows.
From the comments I have heard from many who supported her last time, they had no intention of repeating their mistake, as they themselves put it.
There is no doubt in my mind, nor that of many others, that the mayor realized her re-election was unlikely.
It is ironic that she considers that the city is on the right track, considering her repeated efforts to derail it during the past three years. Her lack of true leadership fractured the council.
Fortunately, we will have the opportunity in November to put this right again.
For the mayor to take credit for the lowest increase in property taxes in the past 12 years is but another affront to this community.
We can correctly attribute this achievement to the late Tom Murray, who organized and shepherded a campaign for more responsible fiscal management.
Shortly after taking office, Mayor Walters stated that a property tax increase of four per cent every year was essential. In subsequent discussions, she remained adamant that anything less would mean a reduction of essential services.
I didn’t know Mr. Murray very well, having met him when I signed the first petition calling for no tax increase. But I came to recognize his integrity in working tirelessly for the citizens of this community.
He was frequently disrespected by the mayor when he spoke at council meetings. But he pushed on until cancer finally claimed his life.
Pitt Meadows owes him much. He, and perhaps more significantly what he worked for, has emerged the winner in the end.
Byron Hosking
Pitt Meadows
Happy trails
Editor, The News:
Re: Mayor Walters will not run again (The News, Aug. 29).
Thank you, Mayor Deb Walters, for your decision to not seek another term in Pitt Meadows.
Happy trails.
Now if we could only cut wages and perks of civic staff and trim excessive property taxes in this community.
Kelvin Klettke
Pitt Meadows