This site is designed to generate comment and solicit opinion on the proposal to run jet boats on the Kicking Horse River. It is not a platform for me to broadcast my opinion but a site to stimulate discussion.
Here are answers to some of the questions I have been asked about it.
1. Why have you done this?
See first paragraph above. For me the biggest issue with this plan is local democracy and whether one person can do something that affects the whole community without consulting with those affected. I want a discussion on the proposal, there seems to be no other forum for this. The forum has been created here and it is now up to the community members to use it and express their views. I also publicly invite Brad McLaren (owner of Wet 'n' Wild Adventures) to contribute to this discussion. Don't let apathy shape your environment - make sure your voice is heard.
2. Do you think jet boats should be allowed on the kicking horse river?
My opinion is unimportant as far as this site is concerned, this site is designed to be impartial and a platform where both sides of the argument can be presented. At some point I will cast my vote.
3. Can this be a balanced discussion?
I am providing a platform for discussion in this blog. If people don't vote or contribute articles or comments the issue is obviously not very important to them.
4. Is the site at risk of being hijacked by one side of the argument or the other?
This is the danger of any single issue argument. The balance of opinion shown is representative of those that express their views. For this reason it is important that all people contribute.
5. As you moderate the site can't you just suppress the articles that don't support your view.
I could do this but I will not. The only thing I will moderate is abuse. Abuse does not contribute to the discussion.
6. Will this site make a difference? How can it change anything?
Change has to start somewhere and it is my opinion that the Internet can be used to empower local democracy. The results from this site will be sent to the Golden Star, our MLA and the Town Council.
If you have a question about this site add it as a comment and I will answer it.
