Caledonia Citizens' Alliance forms

May 12, 2006

[SISIS note: The following news release is provided for reference only. Inclusion of this article on our site should not be considered an endorsement by SISIS.]

*Attention News Editors/Reporters:*

Caledonia Citizens' Alliance - News Release

CALEDONIA, ON, May 12 /CNW/ - Stemming from the growing frustration in the community related to the slow pace of resolving the current crisis at the Douglas Creek Estates the community and businesses have come together to establish one strong voice through the Caledonia Citizens' Alliance. The Alliance is made up of groups such as the Caledonia Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Caledonia BIA, Real Estate representatives, local businesses and a variety of community citizens groups. The purpose of this group is to ensure a strong citizens voice expressing concerns for residents of Caledonia.

The Alliance stresses in strong terms their need to be at the table for any negotiations to help settle any disputes. Ken Hewitt, spokesperson for the Alliance called for "immediate meetings with both the local Member of Parliament, the Honorable Diane Finley and with David Peterson, the Provincially appointed negotiator responsible for finding a solution to the Douglas Estate protest and road blockage." While the group welcomes the involvement of the Provincial Government they noted the lack of activity from the Federal Government in the current efforts to solve the problem.

"We cannot underestimate the damage that is being done to the community from the current crisis," said Don Bowman, Chair of the Caledonia Citizens' Alliance. The Alliance would like to emphasis that Caledonia is an attractive place to live, work and do business and any resolution to the current crisis must achieve a longer term harmony for members of the community.

While efforts are being made to negotiate a settlement the Alliance highlighted that Caledonia is open for business and we invite members of the neighboring communities to come and support Caledonia residents and businesses.

For further information: Sandy Clark, (905) 765-4408