As I attended the candidates’ forum at the Arden Theatre, I became concerned that some of the candidates standing for election for our city council were more interested in money than maintaining the services and amenities that makes St. Albert such a great place to reside in.
The present council and former councils have invested taxpayers’ money carefully and thoughtfully to make St. Albert a very enjoyable community. My wife and I live in a modest, older home that we find very comfortable. Some of the things that we enjoy are modest works of original art that we purchased. (One is a small Stewart Steinhauer sculpture). With a modest income, we chose to spend some money on art. Some are pieces from the local painters’ guild. Some candidates for city council have been critical of the recent purchase of the Steinhauer sculptures. I cannot understand their thinking.
These sculptures are art treasures and the price was very modest. In years to come they will be a significant attraction along with our city hall, the historic buildings on the hill near the Catholic church, Lois Hole Provincial Park, Big Lake, etc. The cost of these sculptures is less than the cost of two small cups of Tim Hortons coffee each year for each taxpayer (using the number of 18,000 taxpayers and the cost of the sculptures of $38,750.00 per year).
Some are critical of our recreation centre, Servus Credit Union Place. I feel that it has been an excellent investment in many ways. On Thanksgiving Day it was crowded with children, parents and people working out. My wife and I have yearly memberships. An unseen benefit is its medical preventative role. As people work out, there is less chance of developing harmful conditions like heart problems.
In conclusion, I would like all candidates for our city council to carefully think about decisions they may make that would reduce the enjoyable lifestyle St. Albert provides. "Money isn't everything." It needs to be carefully used to obtain the things necessary, like art.
W.D. Thomas, St. Albert
