TO BE READ AT COUNCIL MEETING PLEASE

Good afternoon, 

We live at 10th sideroad, just down the road from where the AMJ convention took place. I will start by saying that we are a family that likes privacy with 5 young children but we are also a family that believes a few days of slight discomfort is a small thing in comparison to the happiness it brings to those who attended and to those whom it is important for their culture along with the business it brought to town. I will also note that we are in no way involved with the convention nor do we have anything to do with council. But we think it is important to support such events that are being questioned as we would want the support if it were us and we believe these events bring great benefits to the town. 

Overall we thought it was well managed as far as traffic and parking are concerned. Yes, there was lots of traffic but we get this sort of traffic frequently when the 400 is shut. The better part of this traffic oppose to when the 400 is shut is that it brings business to the town of Bradford. As much as some may not like the hustle and bustle, business is what makes the world go round and is what makes the town of Bradford flourish. Times are tough for many right now in regards to finances and many of the small businesses in town benefit greatly during events like this. As far as safety goes, we honestly felt safer than we usually do as there were police nearby as well as firefighters. 

Why is no one trying to stop Carrot Fest as they are this AMJ convention? This convention doesn't take place through the middle of town like Carrot Fest does. It was in unused space outside of town, I cannot think of a better place to hold such an event. It's no different than a Fall Fair which many surrounding towns hold each year. I personally would love to see a Fall Fair in Bradford, again, I think it would be a huge success and bring business to those who need it. I think the AMJ conference was a great example of such events. We are one of the only towns without a fall fair. Yes the roads all get busy and backed up but aren't these sorts of events what fulfill people and bring meaning to life for many. 

Let's not forget all the inconveniences caused year round by road construction and new development construction and how long these sites are left a mess and how long these inconveniences are caused. But they are okay because they bring money to the town correct? The same as this convention, except this is once a year. 

Our internet and phone service worked fine for the weekend and we are less than a km from the location. 

In regards to clean up, for such a large event, we thought clean up was taken care of in a timely manner. We also quite enjoyed watching the setup progress. To see such a large event come together so well should be looked at as a positive reflection of the people of Bradford. 

In closing, we are in support of the AMJ convention being a reoccurring event every year in Bradford, and definitely at least in support of 2025 as don't most things in life take practice or have a learning curve!? They should at least get a second chance to try and address others concerns such as traffic to see if there's a different plan to address local residents. Don't forget, 3 days out of 365 to bring happiness and purpose to thousands, not to mention the financial gain to the town of Bradford. 

Thank-you 

(Original letter to Mayor and Deputy Mayor has the name and address of this very close neighbour)