In the April 30, 2009 issue of the Shelburne Free Press & Economist, the Highland Companies states that they "want to work with Melancthon Council and residents "in pursuit of an economic vision..."".

It seems that this private corporation feels they are entitled to "assist" elected officials in running the municipality, not through the democratic process by getting elected to Council, but rather by purchasing large tracts of land and throwing money at "community" projects. Please ask yourself, is this corporation in the business of improving the community? Or are they in the business of generating profits for a private company by establishing an open pit mine in "our" agricultural community on prime agricultural land on identified specialty soil. Make no mistake, the Highland Companies is donating to community projects to garner publicity. Every donation is a tax-write off for this private corporation.

If a duly elected Council wants to set a strategic plan for their community, quite often there is a public consultation component, at which ALL of the public has an equal opportunity to provide input. An unelected member of the public does not have a right to sit side by side at the Council table setting policy, even if you happen to be the largest landowner in the community. Do any of the principals of this corporation even reside in Melancthon? Additionally a corporation, no matter how many acres of land they own, is not eligible to vote or run for office in a municipal election.

It is unfortunate that our elected officials find themselves having to defend against this inappropriate "offer" made by the Highland Companies. I am confident, however, that Melancthon Council will be addressing this issue in a public forum at their next Council meeting on May 7, 2009 commencing at 9:00 a.m. If you are unable to attend, contact your elected officials and express your views to Mayor and Council, Melancthon Township at dholmes @melancthontownship.ca or R.R.#6, Shelburne, Ontario L0N 1S9.

Karren Wallace

Melancthon