A comment from Russell Pocock

I am not a resident although I operate a stand at the Saturday Market and North Hatley is a village close to my heart. The idea that, in all situations, there is an opportunity for opposing sides to discuss appeals to me. If it can work in war-torn Colombia, there might even be a chance in North Hatley!

I would imagine a workshop including all interested players where we begin with everyone sharing what they love about North Hatley. That establishes common ground. Then we could move to what everyone hopes for North Hatley going forward, and why.

When visions emerge with differences or even clashes, there needs to be both “safe time and space” for positive exchanges to take place (rants, raised voices and ultimatums must be left at the entrance to the room) and a possibility to work towards consensus – which may involve an acceptable compromise for everyone involved.

If it is felt that things are at an impasse, it may be time for some mediation or conflict resolution exercises, and there are people with such expertise around North Hatley or in the Canton.

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