GuelphToday received the following letter from Carol Ann Douglas regarding the lack of holiday spirit in downtown Guelph:
I am writing this letter as a longtime citizen of Guelph. Since 1985 my family and I moved to Guelph, we have lived and worked here, participated in local politics and issues of concern for our community.
We love this city, it has grown, and needless to say, as with any growth/changes, some have been good, others, not.
The downtown, which should be "the heart" of any city seems to no longer be such. This has been happening long before this pandemic which has devastated all towns, cities, countries and their citizens worldwide.
Now,more than anytime, citizens and cities need HOPE, at least a glimmer of it.
Many citizens, our city council, non-profit organizations and numerous other stakeholders in our community are working tirelessly to help the many folks who are suffering from food insecurity, lack of shelter, healthcare, basics that all members of any society should have.
This is good, for I believe that we are a "caring" city/community.
A part of this, however, is to also provide a glimmer of HOPE, of cheer, a festive spirit for this holiday season.
Our downtown is NOT doing this, it is a sad, grey, uninviting place, little effort has been put into creating a festive, warm, inviting, place.
Some business owners have decorated their businesses beautifully, the city and the Downtown Business Association, sadly, nothing as well as the owners of the many empty businesses and some business owners.
I have written to our mayor and all city councillors, left phone messages and e-mails with the Downtown Business Association to no avail! No one has had the courtesy to respond to my queries and concerns.
It would appear to be that The Grinch(es) has stolen our festive, cheerful holiday season. What a pity!
Kind regards,
Carol Ann Douglas
