Dear editor:
The editorial in last week’s Eagle got me thinking.
These are the things that would be on my wish list for Cochrane in 2015:
1. An important issue that hasn’t been given much attention by the press in Cochrane is the lack of family doctors as per population.
My doctor recently retired due to an extended illness. I went searching for a new family doctor in Cochrane and found out that not one doctor in Cochrane is taking on new patients. In fact, most Cochrane doctors have waiting lists that have been closed due to the amount of people already on their waiting lists. Cochrane is growing. My wish is for a new clinic in Cochrane with at least 20 new doctors who will take on new patients.
2. A new bridge across the Bow River with at least one lane dedicated to emergency vehicles only.
3. The reopening of 4th Avenue, and yes, let CP Rail just deal with it.
4. That the new RCMP building be built in downtown on the old library and community centre lot along with a new community/arts center. Essential services should remain in the downtown core. Too bad if the cost for the new pool is so large that we now need to sell all prime downtown land to accommodate it.
5. Scrap the retail space above the approved aquatic center. Too many retail spaces are currently sitting empty in this town as it is.
6. Downsize the newly proposed curling rink. Anyone associated with curling in this town has stated that they do not need the proposed size for their new venue.
7. Please no more condo apartment buildings that will no doubt be in a decrepit condition within 15 years. Please town planners, think about what you are approving and what it will look like in the near future.
8. Keeping the rodeo grounds downtown is probably a pipe dream, but it sure does give this town a special flavour that no other Alberta town can boast. So far, the Lions Club and the Ag Society haven’t been able to agree on combining their efforts. Perhaps in 2015 they can finally come together and make things happen.
9. Take down the cement blocks blocking the road near the movie theatre. Traffic in town is slow enough without causing more obstructions. Keep traffic flowing by having lights on streets synchronized.
10. Let’s remember our seniors and build some quality duplex style villas in the downtown core, or at least within walking distance of the downtown core.
I wish all of Cochrane a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.
Grayce Vanden Berg
