When is a Councillor an Engineer?

If I had a camera,

I would take a picture

If I had the skill I would post it here.

I do have a camera  I don't have a picture.  But we have words.

Pre-grading  according to approved plan for 33 Longthorpe Court is completed.

The drainage problem is  disclosed.

Also....prominently  protruding  from grade, within feet of the residence. stand two mounds. each  3 feet high,with  3  tall and wide , mature and weighty trees, perched precariously.

The  macabre scene awaits  inspection by  town engineers;

An eleven page  legal opinion from the town solicitor is  already part of the public record.

Council approval  for removal of  trees  was never  within  our domain.

The subdivision agreement,  a legal contract, determines the process.

Engineers are available. Builders  pay fees  to the town  for recovery of cost. Government regulations require it.

More than a year after the problem was identified  resolution  is not in sight..

Following   town direction, an  arborist report costing $4.000.  was obtained  and submitted.

Parks staff attended.,reviewed  and approved removal of trees.

Neighbors intervened.

Repeat  delegations  received .

Three  Council debates.

Decision  deferred  after second . pending  more information.

Third debate ,two hours long , tree removal again discussed out of order.  Question  to be decded  was   a plan for planting trees.

"Save the trees" was the clarion call.

Require a new grading  plan  to accommodate the trees  and the neighbors was the sequel.

The vote was five to four.

The property owner doesn't count.

November  28th ...closing date with obligation to leave one home and   take legal possession of another.

Two business weeks  have passed without action,

Except  grading in the back yard at 33 Longthorpe Court for anyone  and everyone who  cares  to see whaat foolishness  has wrought.