Dear Editor:

Port Stanley is a wonderful place with an incredibly rich history. It is also the home of many people who really care about the past and actually care more about the future. The community is in the process of undergoing great change. These changes will occur mainly because of Central Elgin's ownership of the harbour.

Port Stanley's industrial past will not come back. The future will be based on commercial fishing and recreational uses of the harbour and waterfront property. Port Stanley has the potential to be an important economic development engine for the Municipality, the County and the region. There is growth in our future. However, many people fear 'growth' and 'change'.

Many citizens are concerned about future "uncontrolled" development with no guidance from the people who care about the character of our village. These concerns were voiced over several years. Finally the "PS Business Improvement Area Committee" (the BIA), the "PS Village Association" (PSVA) and "Heritage Port" all got together to agree that something should be done. They collectively wrote to Council and sent a delegation to address the issues. Finally the matter was sent to the "Heritage Committee" of Central Elgin and there were studies and one large public meeting.

With tremendous support and much communication, the idea of identifying a 'Heritage Designation' for part of Port Stanley is moving forward. This process is in accordance with Ontario regulations and rightly must include public participation.

In this case, the people have asked, and Central Elgin is delivering.

Dan McNeil
Councillor Ward One
Central Elgin