April 6, 2009, 2 letters

From: P. W.

To: Dalton McGuinty, Premier
Legislative Building
Queen's Park
Toronto ON M7A 1A1

Dear Mr. McGuinty,

I have attended two recent meetings about the proposed train plans for the Georgetown Corridor in the city. Normally I would have loved this idea but when I found what kinds of trains, where they would be going, and the pollution they would be making, I changed my mind. I like the idea of having a train that goes to the airport but I think there should be stops all the way up so anyone, not only the businessmen can get on. But, a more important matter is not to use diesel trains - they should only be electric.

Yours truly,

P. W.

From: B. C.

To: Dalton McGuinty, Premier
Legislative Building
Queen's Park
Toronto ON M7A 1A1

Dear Mr. McGuinty,

I have attended two recent meetings about the proposed train plans for the Georgetown Corridor in Toronto. This proposal envisages using public monies to fund a largely private rail project with no benefit to the people who live along the line. Yet, it is proposed that they pay the price of the project - incessant noise and unconscionable pollution from diesel trains and the disruption of their communities.

My family and I do not live on the rail corridor. The fact is that I don’t want any of my neighbours or fellow citizens to be put in such an entirely avoidable position.

I will happily support the use of public funds as long as only electric trains used. As well, the corridor must be used, on a priority basis, to provide affordable, public transit to all the communities through which the trains pass.

This is a key issue of local democracy that I and many of my neighbours are watching very carefully. I want my government to respond to the wishes of people in their communities and I will work very hard between now and the next election to support those leaders who do.

I look forward to a response to my concerns and a statement of your position on this matter.

Yours truly,

B. C.