Re: The referendum issue

The amalgamation of Kitchener and Waterloo has been discussed for many years and will continue to be. It would also have a significant impact on the citizens of the two cities. The question put before the two councils was whether or not we should have an opportunity to voice our views and examine it through a referendum, not whether or not we should amalgamate.

The delegates arguing against the referendum were not arguing for or against amalgamation but against giving everyone an opportunity to do so. One wonders how, in the name of democracy, delegates and individuals wanting to be heard by council can argue that their neighbours and fellow citizens should not.

The result is that the next time we go to the polls, all citizens in Kitchener should be heard by their council and we will truly see democracy in action. Sadly in Waterloo, we will not.