In answer to Cameron Bailey’s letter [“One-sided imposition,” November 23], I was saddened to see the NIMBY (not in my back yard) attitude emanating from my community.
Inclusion Powell River (IPR) has been serving this community for 60 years and has a stellar reputation. This agency has supported many people with disabilities to become contributing members of our community and will do the same for the person moving to Wildwood.
Mr. Bailey claims a right to screen newcomers and dictate what they do on their property. I doubt that he grants those rights to his neighbours and would likely not tolerate the interference. I would be curious to know exactly how Mr. Bailey’s “freedom through personal autonomy’ has been curtailed by his new neighbour.
I don’t recall reading in any news coverage that IPR was abdicating their “responsibility for [their] actions.” In fact, quite the opposite, IPR built a fence to contain the risk and is providing 24-hour staffing. I am most certain that IPR will protect their client, staff and neighbours from threats and damage as would be mandated by their policies, procedures and contracts.
I live half a block from a group home operated by IPR. They are great neighbours and I have never heard or seen anything from that residence to make me regret choosing my neighbourhood.
We are not born good community members. Some people take longer than others to learn those skills. This can be the result of learning challenges or being placed in an environment (such as an institution) where those skills are not shared/have less value. It is mine and Mr. Bailey’s responsibility, as good community members, to light the path for others not throw them out.
You are not a victim, Mr. Bailey, but you are victimizing others. You have smeared the reputation of an agency providing a valuable service and much-needed employment in our city. You are shutting doors for people who need a door opened and a smile offered. Put your biases aside and go meet your new neighbour.
Pat Thompson
Redonda Avenue
