Tahsis Council Pursues Direct Meeting with Transportation Minister

The Tahsis Council is actively seeking a direct meeting with Mark Farnworth, the Minister of Transportation and Transit for British Columbia, to address pressing concerns about local road conditions. Mayor Martin Davis expressed disappointment during a council meeting on September 2, stating that Farnworth declined the request for a direct discussion.

The council aims to bring attention to the deteriorating state of roads in Tahsis, which, according to Davis, poses a significant threat to the village’s economy by deterring tourism. During the meeting, he noted, “There have also been a few accidents this summer,” highlighting the urgent need for road maintenance. He criticized the current maintenance model, asserting, “Maintaining roads for profit is a failed model and will never lead to maintenance levels that we used to enjoy before it was passed to the private sector.”

Unanimous Support for Direct Engagement

In an effort to escalate the issue, Davis introduced a motion during the recent Strathcona Regional District meeting, advocating for a meeting with Farnworth. The motion received unanimous support from the council members, indicating a strong collective desire to engage with provincial authorities about local infrastructure concerns.

Davis also shared a personal experience to underscore the impact of road conditions on residents. He revealed that he spent $1,000 on shock replacements for his vehicle due to damage caused by potholes. This personal anecdote reflects a broader frustration among residents regarding the ongoing neglect of road maintenance.

The upcoming Union of BC Municipalities Convention, scheduled for September, presents an opportunity for local leaders to meet with provincial ministers. Davis remains hopeful that this convention will facilitate discussions regarding Tahsis’ critical infrastructure needs.

The Tahsis Council’s efforts highlight the challenges faced by small communities in advocating for necessary government support. As the situation continues to develop, residents and local officials are left to navigate the repercussions of inadequate road maintenance on both safety and economic viability.