Dear Editor:
I am writing to thank everyone that has supported the efforts to designate the historical farmhouse at 7535 Sixth Line in former Nichol Township.
In particular, the volunteer efforts of the Heritage Committee, the professional advice of municipal staff to council, letters to council, letters to the editor, Facebook comments and the informed support from councillors Stephen Kitras and Bob Foster are deeply appreciated.
Although our family’s former, 122-year-old, yellow brick farmhouse is being demolished as I write this letter, it is with gratitude that we acknowledge all those who are willing to speak up in support of protecting and preserving our shared heritage. It is this active demonstration of selfless, respectful citizenship that makes good neighbours and builds strong communities.
Centre Wellington’s website claims “The Township is home to an active festival and event scene with many based on the heritage of the people who first settled here”. The township benefits from the dedicated efforts of property owners and volunteers who make significant investments of time and money to protect and preserve the township’s heritage.
Yet when they had the opportunity, Centre Wellington’s mayor and four councillors lacked the courage and leadership to do their part to honour the architectural craftsmanship of the township’s early settlers.
The senseless destruction of this historical farmhouse in Centre Wellington will hopefully incite others to make their voices heard in a collective call to protect our built heritage. Canadians and Ontarians are finally waking up to the fact that our heritage legislation requires immediate reform. It does not allow citizens to appeal a local council decision.
As we see playing out in the current news, even citizens in our nation’s capital are helpless to stop a local council that is incapable of protecting the Chateau Laurier – a national historic treasure.
Any decision regarding the preservation of heritage assets should not be a political decision made by local councillors. The federal and provincial governments must intervene to save our shared heritage.
Irene Sullivan,
Guelph-Eramosa