I would like to draw the attention of Victoria city council to the fact that we do not live in southern Ontario. Summer weather here does not routinely include temperatures of 110 F and humidities of 100%, conditions where a splash pad would be very desirable.

Here, pleasurable summer activities can include sitting under a lovely old tree and admiring the beauty of a fountain.

As well, I think a large sum of money could usefully be devoted to activities that would tend to prevent most or all downtown businesses going bankrupt.

Chas Low

Victoria

Picton is a picturesque and dynamic ferry port of 5,000 inhabitants, situated on the north coast of New Zealand’s South Island.

In the town centre, within one square kilometre, the public finds available more than 20 stainless steel toilet units, each with a sink, urinal and toilet. Most of these bathrooms have changing tables and all are accessible. They are clean, tidy and free of charge.

In our downtown core, Victorians have been denied facilities for this most basic human need.

Victoria’s city councillors ought to change their focus from the proposed “splash park” to a more urgent concern, to benefit us all.

Juta Worster

Victoria

Re: “Chinese shipyard to build new ­vessels for B.C. Ferries,” June 11.

As a resident of North Saanich, and ­frequent user of the B.C. Ferries system, I am outraged by the conclusion rendered by the B.C. Ferries board of directors. The procurement deal is with China to build four major ferry vessels at ­Merchants Industry Weihai Shipyards in China. It seems to me that we can do better than supporting a country that is causing harm to Canada through ­tariffs.

While the CEO might state this is the best deal for British Columbia, it is a rationalization that does not adequately address the decision-making process.

The decision in my view is both frivolous and irresponsible, and was made without due diligence.

The board of directors appears not to have an understanding of the effect their outrageous decisions and actions will have on our communities and moral values.

Instead of making deals and supporting China, we should look to our allies and ensure our money supports the values we have as British Columbians.

The best deal for British Columbia would obviously be to bring jobs........

© Times Colonist