When does a fence become an offense?This week has seen a chain-link fence rise up around a nearby park. It's the only ball diamond for quite a distance, and there used to be a fun little playgound there.
No more.
Much of it is now blocked off to the public.
For what it's worth, it isn't technically public property; it's part of the Semiahmoo band's reserve. And for quite a while, the band has been threatening go fence it off, largely in response to the many dog owners who let their dogs run free there and then don't clean up after the messes they leave behind.
Still, this week's action comes as quite a shock. The reason being cited is a sinkhole that appeared last summer. Only now, the spot has grown, so I suppose this is what the lawyers advised.
In the meantime, no playground, no open field for games or kite-flying or just plain enjoying the space a park offers. In the confines of our busy lives, with so little green space left, this closure feels quite harsh.
I'm trying not to be sad about it, but right now, that isn't easy.
1 comment:
As a neighbor that has grown up with the Semiahmoo first nations i write a letter to everyone affected. This includes band members and city residents.
"The fence" ...insulting, sad, ugly, it all sends a feeling of sheer disgust. While I understand the possible frustrations many First Nations have with the Canadian communities that surround their lands, it is an issue that they will need to learn to accept. What does a fence accomplish or say... What does it teach about cooperation and developing relationships with themselves and other communities. How does it help to maintain their customs and being part of a greater society that continues to evolve around them. This fence spits in the face of the mutual relationship that exists, like it or not. Perhaps they forget this relationship includes their unrestricted and free access to our infrastructure and social services. This fence in no way fosters respect or creates any understanding of the real issues that may exist. Figuratively speaking how does one live on both sides of the fence. This reclusion from their surrounding community is a silly game that only hurts their reputation. This fence is a real shame...
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