CONTINUING SAGA OF THE SHORT (OF MONEY AND SUPPORT) LINE RAILROAD

Say it ain't so Mikey, say it ain't so....

Grand plans for a rail line between Brampton and Owen Sound have run into a little snag.

Perchance could it be (a lack of) money and a stupid business plan and a well orchestrated opposition?

Read all about it:
http://www.owensoundsuntimes.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2608204

And Deputy Mayor Bill Hill has submitted the following for consideration at the June 10 County Council meeting-excerpts below, full letter at: http://www.dufferincounty.on.ca/documents/2010-06-10_Council_Agenda.pdf


"Re: Discussion of Rail Line Sale

My opposition to the sale of the rail line has been made known for some time. My concern has
NOTHING to do with the one unsolicited offer from the Highland Railway Group. Regardless of
who may wish to purchase the line, I would not support the sale.

This tract of land can never be replaced. It was gifted to the County four years ago and while
the agreement does provide the County with considerable powers it appears to me that unless
the COUNTY is to develop a transportation corridor the intent of the gifting agreement is that
the property stays in public hands to be used as a trail.

I could be encouraged to support a lease of the line. However, there would have to be a solid
business plan that showed considerable economic benefit to the residents of the area and the
Municipalities that the rail line would go through. The “greater good” should be served.

This Council is getting near the end of its term. Let’s not let the sale of the rail line be the legacy
of our term. It would be a sad day in the history of Dufferin County.
Respectfully,
Bill Hill
Deputy Mayor
Township of Melancthon"

Thank YOU Mr. Hill, sincerely, thanks.