Dear editor:

As a concerned resident of St. Davids, I am deeply troubled by the “part-time” approach being adopted by our lord mayor and regional councillor toward the proposed roundabout in our historic heartland.

St. Davids is a tapestry of memories, traditions and cultural heritage. It deserves a more thoughtful and comprehensive evaluation before such significant infrastructure changes are made.

It was disheartening to hear our lord mayor say at a committee meeting that only 10 individuals were reportedly against the roundabout.

This statement not only seems detached from the actual sentiments of our community but also feels dismissive of the numerous voices that have risen in concern.

The statement is false. St. Davids deserves representatives who are in touch with its people’s pulse and emotions. This isn’t something to consider “part-time.”

I am not inherently against roundabouts. When utilized thoughtfully, they can be a solution to traffic woes and improve efficiency.

However, every place has its unique needs and character. Implementing a “one-size-fits-all” solution without taking into account the specifics of an area can lead to unintended negative consequences.

The heart of St. Davids is not merely a junction of roads: it’s where generations have come together, where history speaks through every brick and stone, and where our community’s spirit thrives.

The potential disruption and transformation of this space require more than a “part-time” consideration.

I’d like to urge my fellow citizens from Niagara-on-the-Lake to voice their opinions not just on the roundabout, but also on how the money earmarked for this project might be better utilized.

Could we perhaps invest in preserving our historical landmarks, improving public spaces or enhancing community programs?

Our collective imagination can indeed find more fitting and beneficial avenues for this investment.

This is not a debate fuelled by a podcast episode or a passing trend. This is about the very essence of St. Davids.

I urge our lord mayor and regional councillor to engage with the community genuinely and to ensure that our beloved village is treated with the respect and care it deserves.

In a world ever-leaning toward rapid urbanization, let’s not lose the charm and soul of our unique spaces. Let’s be thoughtful, inclusive and sensitive to the needs and emotions of our community.

Let St. Davids be an example of how progress and preservation can harmoniously coexist.

Chris Salvatore
St. Davids