The Editor,
Re. “Totem poles ‘majestic, amazing,’ and badly in need of restoration” (The Tri-City News, Oct. 21).
A few years ago, we attended the usual meeting of city council with the community to discuss issues in preparation for the next year’s budget. Although we have lived in Coquitlam for more than 32 years, we never did know about the totem pole at Dogwood Pavilion.
We, like others, questioned the mayor about the pole and suggested it would be better served and enjoyed if it could be incorporated within the Town Centre plans. We were acknowledged and it sounded like a good idea.
Later on, we followed up and were advised there were issues with condition of the totem pole and the Kwikwetlem First Nation, and nothing appears to have been done.
Now, with the totem in dire need of repairs, the issue has surfaced again. But the cost for repairs and moving is $30,000.
This is well worth the cost as the pole represents an important part of Coquitlam heritage and was a gift in recognition of Canada’s 100th birthday.
Recommendation for bureaucrats, mayor and council: Get this job done now.
Elwin Mowry, Coquitlam
