I am compelled to voice my opinion on the city’s move to expropriate Western Forest Products’ (WFP’s) Somass Sawmill lands. While I agree that it is not in the city’s interest for the mill to sit idle, I believe expropriation sets a dangerous precedent. …Western says it’s “an open and committed partner to the City of Port Alberni.” Why are they letting the mill sit dormant for so long? …The idea of having residential development in this area is like building houses by an airport, where residents then complain about the noise. …I would like nothing better than to see the land sold to the San Group, a company that has already proven their commitment to our community and that clearly wants to get down to business and open things up there.