I've been meaning to start this thread for a while, as it is a topic that often comes up in other discussions, but there is no formal thread in which to discuss it. Recent growth patterns and demographic shifts are causing this to be a more and more pertinent issue. With the growing clout of the "South of the Fraser" communities and loss of industrial land in Vancouver proper I was wondering what you guys thought of amalgamation of a few of the communities North of the Fraser.
I've thrown together a short list of pros and cons to get the discussion rolling.
Mods please don’t let this turn into a Surrey vs. Vancouver —-show. Also if anyone is interested please make a corresponding thread concerning S. of Fraser amalgamation, as I would but I am not familiar enough with local politics and demographics to start a thread.
Pros
- Increased population and unified voice allows for more voice within the metro regarding allocation of resources and funds.
- Integration will allow for more streamlined operations such as policing and utilities
- Would increase industrial land supply of COV, allowing them to be less concerned with retaining certain areas which may make more sense in a commercial/residential application.
Cons
- Loss of unique areas steeped in history such as New Westminster and Port Moody
- Loss of autonomy of local governments to set local policies and land use patterns.
- Some areas may feel as though their voice has gotten smaller within the massive new city created.
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