Re: "It's time to charge user fees for St. Albert's amenities," Letters, June 23.
I have to comment on the very short-sighted commentary offered by letter-writer Sherri Green.
With 56 per cent of St. Albertans commuting to Edmonton for work, and St. Albert having 14,000 full-time students, it is truly Edmonton that is extending “generosity” to those living here.
Even the 30 per cent of St. Albertans with second jobs are employed in Edmonton. There are far more attractions, businesses, and facilities in Edmonton that draw St. Albertans, than Edmontonians who may come here.
If you’ve ever been to the Valley Zoo, or any of the city’s other recreation facilities, including golf, enjoyed a hockey or football game, used the LRT or other Edmonton Transit Services, attended the Winspear, Telus World of Science, or John Janzen Nature Centre, you have been charged the same admittance as those who reside and pay taxes in Edmonton.
Have you ever been directed by an employee of the City of St. Albert to an ECO station in Edmonton because St. Albert couldn’t handle certain items? I have.
I have been asked for proof of residency once, and that was at the city's compost depot, which restricts use to St. Albert residents.
Previous attendance at Servus Place required I supply my postal code, and last year I was asked the same thing at the recycling depot. I have never experienced having to produce identification or proof of residency while attending events or facilities in Edmonton.
This is a fight St. Albert doesn’t need, nor can they win. The City of Edmonton has been and continues to be a great neighbour to St. Albert and all surrounding communities. Let’s not jeopardize that relationship.
John Ratcliff, St. Albert
