The following letter to Mr. Hunter Harrison, President and CEO CN Rail was sent to The Chief for publication:
Re: Your demands dated August 5, 2005 regarding Existing Railway Crossings.
The District of Squamish recently received a number of demands from Canadian National Railway regarding various railway crossings within our municipality. These crossings have previously been authorized subject to terms and conditions established between the Province of British Columbia and the District of Squamish, described on certificates issued pursuant to the provisions of the Railway Act of British Columbia.
The District of Squamish has enjoyed the use of these crossings for years. The suggestion that the District of Squamish apply for these crossings and the threat that the crossing will be removed if we don't comply with CN Rail's demands, is both arrogant and offensive.
The terms and conditions established by the Provincial certificate include issues of vehicular traffic signage, rail traffic signage, gates and the cost of maintenance. It is our understanding that BC Rail maintained the crossings at the appropriate standard. We appreciate that CN Rail is willing to upgrade signage at CN's expense. We expect that CN Rail should also be willing to carry out the new standards at CN's expense.
We understand that at least one of our citizens has been similarly approached. No discussion, no real exchange of information, rather a long form letter taking a legal approach toward demanding compliance and threatening the loss of access.
The District of Squamish invites, welcomes, and appreciates good corporate citizens in our community. Canadian National Railway has introduced shunting cars in or near residential neighbourhoods during the late night and early morning hours, regularly blocks access to our Downtown for excessive periods due to train length, and has destroyed thousands of fish within the Cheakamus and Squamish rivers. Now CNR is threatening our municipality's access and that of our citizens.
The Province of British Columbia has recognized the benefit of our rail transportation system and has entrusted our railway assets to Canadian National Railway. We would like to have the confidence that this trust has not been misplaced.
Ian Sutherland
Mayor, District of Squamish
