This letter is in response to the letter "Who will spend my tax dollars wisely?" (Humboldt Journal Letter to the Editor: April 10, 2013)
As a citizen living in the City of Humboldt, I understand Mrs. Dutchak's concerns about wise use of our tax dollars.
It can be overwhelming to know that our community is tasked with repairing aging infrastructure, while maintaining our quality of life and preparing for forecast population growth.
However, the fabric of a great community is created by so much more than roads and utilities. The Uniplex, the Spray Park and the Water Tower are all examples of features that make Humboldt great and would not have happened without the City's and citizens' commitment. With this in mind, I would like to offer some clarifying information about the Humboldt Community Trails Project.
This is not a newly "unveiled" project. The Humboldt Trails Committee was initiated in November of 2008 and have spent hundreds of volunteer hours researching, planning and fundraising to make safe, accessible walking paths an attainable goal for Humboldt. This includes the most recent step of having a professional long-term plan created - which provides creditability to access significant trails grants, such as the $25,000 CN EcoConnexions grant received this spring.
Safe pedestrian routes are not "extravagant" or "frivolous." Humboldt is a city that, until now, has been designed for vehicle traffic. There are many thoroughfares without sidewalks or paths, making it unsafe for non-motorized travel. A minimum of 25 per cent of our citizens are not able to drive - notably those under 16 years or with disabilities. This does not include those of us who would rather walk or run, given the choice.
The City Council has consistently expressed the willingness to partially fund initiatives, as long as they reflect the commitment and desire of citizens. The community trails project has been widely supported. In turn, our committee is spearheading an ongoing fundraising campaign and trails will only be built when the dollars are in place to do so.
We thank you for the opportunity to share our story of commitment and community cooperation in our great City of Humboldt.
