Dear editor,
Every election in the past several years has seen a clear divide in the letters to the editor by Valley citizens.
One side promotes the 'what's in it for me?' mentality — 'how my finances will improve with this candidate or that.'
The other side of the debate asks, 'How can we, as residents this beautiful valley make it more livable for all, now and into the future?'
The first group appears to be most concerned with themselves, right now.
This shows itself in the often-scathing letters and name-calling towards those people who are concerned with environmental impact in the future, and providing housing now for those who have none.
The second group often appears idealistic, having a vision of a community where all are fed, housed, and a clean and healthy environment is left for future generations.
To me, it is not common sense to ignore the social and environmental problems of today and hope they will disappear. They won't.
To deal with them now will actually save money in the long term and, at the same time, provide a better future for all. That is true common sense.
Kay Kennedy,
Courtenay