I share many of these same concerns and am also skeptical of the information presented this morning (as well as the way it was presented). This is not an ideal location for anyone other than CN to build this facility, plain and simple. There are other locations that would be mutually beneficial, and be less disruptive to our residents, and our town. I'm also concerned about the "1000 direct and indirect jobs" projection. Taking truck drivers into account, existing CN employees, and other qualified individuals across the GTA who will be more than welcome to apply, when it comes down to it the big question is: How many jobs will actually go to Milton residents? There are some undeniable benefits in having this facility in our town, but with the interests of our residents in mind, I just can't get behind this project as it's currently proposed. I am very much hoping that CN's pledge to work with the community on this is not just an empty statement. There's a huge difference between fielding the concerns of our residents, and actually listening, taking them to heart, and making the necessary changes to alleviate them. Time will tell how truthful the statements made today really are, and until then I'm being cautiously optimistic.
You can learn more about the project from CN's perspective at
http://www.cnmilton.comYou can also follow and tweet to
https://twitter.com/CNandMilton and
https://twitter.com/CN_Comm to voice concerns directly to CN (or by email to
milton@cn.ca) and get updates, as well as of course contacting your local councillor to provide us with your questions, concerns, and insight.
CN will be opening an information centre at 61 James Snow Parkway - Suite 202
Official opening Saturday, March 28 from 9:00 AM until 2:00 PM - so get your questions, comments, and concerns ready.
Email:
milton@cn.caInfo Centre Phone Number: 1-800-216-9466
Media Contact:
Mark Hallman
Director Communications & Public Affairs
(905) 663-3384