So, now our city council is upset because the destruction of 124 S. Main St. has not turned out like the owners promised. And the owners of the previously connected buildings are concerned about the walls left exposed. Hindsight is wonderful, isn’t it?

I attended the public hearing after which the demolition was approved. Some of you might recall that I questioned whether the connecting buildings would be affected. There were serious concerns from several people about the future of an open space between buildings. “The most beautiful lot in all of Ottawa” was the promise given.

I typically am not an “I told you so” person, but cannot resist in this case. I was on the planning commission for several years and saw far too many instances of unfulfilled promises. When will our commissioners learn to get it in writing? In general, they are successful business people and professionals. In their professional lives, would they not expect to have proposals to their business in writing?

Cash money — that is another way to “put their feet to the fire.” Ever hear of bonding? The owners and the demolition company should have been required to put up a performance bond.

Yes, I was at the public hearing. Of concern is something I have seen before: The resolution for approval already was printed up. It had been prepared ahead of time. Does this mean their minds already were made up? Does this mean the public hearing was a sham? If their minds were already made up, this is tantamount to having closed any opportunity to hear another side of the issue.

Why have a hearing at all?

— Dr. Richard Warren,

Ottawa