Dear Editor:

I read the recent editorial in the Oct. 17 edition of the Osoyoos Times with interest.
The headline stated “Possible airport expansion should not involve one penny of local tax dollars.”
The editorial states “the airport currently serves our needs.”
OK. I get it. But consider this.
In my opinion, we need a vibrant, year-round economy, not one that dies every September.
We need high-paying jobs for our young families and students entering the workforce. We need jobs that won’t pollute our valley.
Now, I don’t know this chap named Tom McHale.
I know nothing about his company, Gemstone Logistics, or Jet Pro Consultants, and I’m not waving any flags for them.
The concept that they are pursuing, however, could make sense for our residents and local businesses.
If the “obstacle study” they performed, that is talked about in the front-page article, is so favourable, perhaps we have a jewel in our midst?
An expanded airport capable of allowing folks to live here and commute to high-paying jobs everywhere in our vast northland might be a very good plan.
Let’s think about our airport and speak to others in the industry about the possibility of its expansion.
Besides, competition for this business idea would be healthy, don’t you think?

Glenn Matheson
Osoyoos, B.C.