Comment
Each back in their corner
by Michelle Minnoch

The hot topic on everyone's lips these days are the boundary/servicing discussions between the Town of Innisfil and the City of Barrie. First talks ended abruptly, and now the sides have been asked to go back to the table by Provincial facilitator Alan Wells.

As I am out in the community, many people are talking about this. Two major concerns regarding any boundary changes to the Town are of Georgian Downs and the Big Bay Point Resort. These are two significant parts of our community. Annually, money from Georgian Downs makes its way into the municipality, and our infrastructure gets a boost. The Resort is sure to be an economic asset to the town, employing local residents, housing new residents, and now that the sun is shining, many would agree the town is always in favour of another golf course.

Yes, the two sides are now in their corners and have been advised to play nice. Of course, Wells has said both Barrie and Innisfil (and the County of Simcoe) have to benefit from the agreement. Long term needs have to be met, the environment has to be protected, residential and employment opportunities have to thrive.

While Wells has said the parties have measured success during the talks, success on whose terms? The Barrie negotiating committee has recently been reshuffled after Barrie Mayor Dave Aspen removed himself from the negotiating committee (speculation regarding his China trip and an investigation regarding his conduct is underway).

With the boundary talks and annexed lands being such an important issue at this point in time, the City of Barrie losing their mayor on the committee can either be a hinder or helpful. You would think the mayor of a city such as Barrie would want to be involved in absolutely everything concerning the city, especially possible boundary negotiations. Too bad his questionable conduct has removed him from being involved in such discussions. But, as his conduct over the past few weeks has come into question, the removal might be a saving grace for the Barrie committee.

Either way, it's good thing the sides are talking. We were always told in school to talk things out, don't ignore problems or else they will be bigger.

How much bigger can the problem get while there are discussions going on? Only time will tell.