Commentary

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June 15, 2010

by: Ross Kentner

Ever wonder if the world is unfolding as it should? Let me give you one proof that, indeed it is. This whole beautiful region is bounded by the sweet water of the Great Lakes and the waterways that connect them. The water is pure and the lakes healthy, at least compared to elsewhere. Because they were once highways of commerce, they are liberally graced with lighthouses that are tourism magnets. It’s probably good news that oil tankers no longer cross local sealanes so, if we are vigilant about the sites where land installations could leak pollutants into the water, we should be able to keep it clean. And even though the federal government has declared more of our local lighthouses surplus to requirements, we finally have the Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act to help preserve these assets of historical, architectural and economic value.

Maybe "preserve" is a little too optimistic. The federal government is saving money not spending it. But the act, which came into force last month, protects a designated structure from alterations that could compromise its heritage status. A new owner such as the municipality of Saugeen Shores which plans to acquire the imperial tower on Chantry Island, has to provide a viable business case and management plan.

Kudos to Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MP Larry Miller whose private member’s bill supported the act which originated in the Senate. Larry is up front about the fact there is no budget to facilitate an orderly transfer of lights like those at Big Tub Harbour, Cove Island, Griffith Island and Cape Croker. But there is an undertaking to clean up any contaminants before transferring ownership. And new owners will be held to maintenance requirements.

Let me tell you how I see the world unfolding. Lighthouses are much like the waterfront itself…they’re not making any more! And that’s why I believe you’re going to see some of these classics replicated by entrepreneurs who want to attract people through the beauty and romance of a lighthouse. I can’t think of a waterfront community anywhere that couldn’t cash in on a lighthouse…the more authentic-looking the better. Nevertheless, more and more people are going to search out the real thing, to climb those steps and to make their own photo art. Our lighthouse coasts are the world unfolding as it should!

Commentary, with Ross Kentner, can be heard on 560 CFOS Tuesdays & Thursdays at 7:08 am and 5:08 pm