It comes around like clockwork, the pledge to improve. When a set of stairs starts to resemble the Grouse Grind and previously loose fitting pants look like body paint we know it's time to make a change.
This is the reason why January is a very busy time in fitness locations as truant bodies are marched into gyms in an effort to rediscover long-neglected muscles.
We face a new year with ambition and head down a path towards selfimprovement. Starting is easy, staying committed is another story.
The situation with our municipal body is not so different. Over the course of time, decisions get made that result in bigger budgets and instead of tightening the belt another hole gets punched. The next time that belt feels tight again it becomes easier to reach for the hole punch instead of trying to work towards a slimmer waistline.
Greatly increased density plans may put more tax dollars into the pot, but they create a bulge in other areas. Our already overloaded road system cannot handle the additional cars spilling out of more and more highrises.
Intergovernmental planning is required to get things moving. So far it appears that we are just getting the highrises.
Until realistic traffic solutions - for the likes of Steveston Highway and No. 5 Road - are instigated, further major developments should be put on hold.
A new year is a great time to make the conscious choice for change. Let's hope our civic leaders are up to the challenge as the November election hones into view.
