All Around the Mulberry Bush

Last year a motion by Councillor MacEachern , seconded by myself determined a park be located on the abandoned site of a former water tower.

It seemed the only possible use for the property. At the same time, I suggested property owners surrounding the site should be consulted about the proposed use.

The project was included in the 2009 capital budget estimates at $250k. to be taken from the Development Charges Reserve Fund. The cost was a bit of a shocker.

Last week, driving around looking at various parks and playgrounds, I realised with a shock,the enclosed site was entirely inappropriate for a park.

On Tuesday evening, I attempted to bring the issue to Council's attention as a matter of urgency in the new business section of the agenda.

Mayor Morris refused to allow it. With a consistent block of five supporting votes , the Mayor rules. If she does not choose to allow an urgent matter to be introduced, that's how the cookie will crumble.

The facts are: The one acre site is surrounded by homes. Mature vegetation on the residential
property encircles and encloses it. The area has no visibility from the road or the residences. Children playing there would have no protection from potential harm.

There's a reason why parks are open and visible from all sides.

There is even a York Regional Police Policy called Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design which would undoubtedly rule against a park being hidden away on the secluded former water tower site.

No matter. The Mayor has decreed. The issue can only be brought to Council's attention by a notice of motion. Then a motion duly moved and seconded. Then a council debate and a formal vote . Which may or may not succeed . Since the initiative is mine, the odds are stacked.

All around the mulberry bush,
The monkey chased the weasel
The monkey thought twas all in fun
Pop goes the weasel.