The announcement of the new Tim Horton’s restaurant has caused quite the buzz in Lake Cowichan.
Reactions range from extremely positive to overly negative — and for a variety of reasons.
Some citizens are concerned that the new establishment will rob other local restaurants and the Cowichan Lake Sports Arena’s concession of business, while others argue that the new Tim Horton’s is the best thing to ever happen and will stimulate economic growth in the area.
Only time will tell if the new Tim Horton’s proves to be a positive addition to the area when the new restaurant comes to Lake Cowichan this summer.
When Mayor Ross Forrest made the announcement on Jan. 20, The Gazette posted the news on its Facebook page. Coffee is sure a popular topic in Lake Cowichan because the newspaper’s Facebook account recorded roughly 70 comments within a few short hours. The page also received upwards of 20 new ‘likes.’
It’s good to see The Gazette’s Facebook page active and getting use but it was also alarming. Such an issue as a fast-food restaurant coming to town appears to be a far more important topic to Lake Cowichan residents than more significant issues at hand like the new library, the reconstruction of South Shore Road or the fluoride referendum. If people were as vocal on all other issues affecting Lake Cowichan, Town Council’s duties would be a breeze.