Letter: Why won’t Bigger honour referendum results?

On election night, Oct. 27, we had a referendum regarding store hours in the City of Greater Sudbury. We, the residents of Sudbury, were told (prior to elections) that the referendum had to have 50 plus one per cent of eligible registered voters say yes to all three questions in order to “democratically” settle this contentious issue and deregulate store hours.

Although separately, each question had a positive result of over 50 per cent, there was not 50 plus one per cent of eligible voters who answered the three questions.

Why does our mayor elect not wish to honour the results? Why does the Chamber of Commerce continually advocate to extend store hours?

Will Mr. Bigger be “at work in his office,” available to the public on Boxing Day? Will Debbi Nicholson, André Dumais and Tom Querney be at the Chamber of Commerce office, available to the public, on Boxing Day?

Chances are that all will be at home enjoying the holiday with their families and friends.

What was the use of having a referendum if the results of the popular vote are not respected? The people have spoken. Why won’t Mr. Bigger and members of the Chamber of Commerce listen?

I worked in retail for 35 years (my choice). I liked working with the public and meeting the people.

FYI, when the stores opened for Sunday shopping, it did not bring about an increase in sales and more jobs. The hours were spread out to cover Sunday. Whatever sales were done on Sunday were subsequently lost on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

There is only so much money to be spent. Like everyone else, retail employees need a break. Why shouldn’t they also have two days off at Christmas to enjoy with family and friends?

G. Harrison
Sudbury