Reflecting on Community Growth and Challenges in Nelson

In a reflective column, Donna Macdonald revisits significant moments and community initiatives in Nelson over the past year. Macdonald, who has lived in the city since 1972, began writing her monthly column as a way to engage with the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. She aims to highlight the city’s rich history and the ongoing efforts that shape its development.

Macdonald’s journey through the year included various explorations, starting with a visit to the snowy fairways of the Granite Pointe Golf Club in January. She focused on the local non-profit society and the ambitious Hallo Nelson project, which involves the establishment of a new golf course along with 300 housing units, hotels, shops, and eateries. Despite a year of little visible progress, reports indicate that the golf course is set to open as usual in 2026.

In February, Macdonald took a stroll through Gyro Park, where she was inspired by the park’s symbol, the gyroscope. She reflected on how a gyroscope maintains balance and direction despite external pressures, paralleling the importance of strong community values. This theme of stability resonated throughout the year, particularly in light of the challenges faced by individuals and families in the community.

April brought a solemn note as Macdonald paid tribute to former councillor and mayor Bill Ramsden, whose leadership style emphasized listening, cooperation, and compromise. She contrasted Ramsden’s approach with the ongoing debates surrounding land use for recreation versus affordable housing, highlighting a perceived decline in constructive dialogue.

In May, she shared her personal experience of decluttering her home, emphasizing the importance of resource recovery and the principles of Zero Waste. This commitment to sustainability reflects a broader community ethos, where every item found a new home instead of ending up as waste.

The success of the Community First Health Co-op was celebrated in June, showcasing a model of community-driven healthcare that exemplifies perseverance and collective effort. In July, Macdonald explored the underutilized city parkade with former mayor Gerald Rotering, uncovering the need for better awareness and accessibility for residents, particularly seniors who may lack access to technology for payment.

In September, she highlighted the Osprey Community Foundation, which launched a fundraising campaign to mark its 25th anniversary. Initially skeptical about their target of $75,000, Macdonald was pleasantly surprised when the foundation exceeded expectations, raising $86,000 with support from local credit unions.

November presented a more challenging topic as Macdonald addressed the pervasive issue of violence against women. She expressed her gratitude for the work being done by the Aimee Beaulieu Transition House, which provides essential support for women and children fleeing violence. Following her column, she received messages from community members indicating that her writing inspired them to direct their charitable giving to the transition house.

As she concluded her review of the past year, Macdonald emphasized the importance of recognizing and valuing the community’s achievements while remaining steadfast in the face of challenges. Her reflections serve as a reminder that no aspect of community life can be taken for granted. Macdonald encourages residents to uphold their core values as they navigate an ever-changing world.

With aspirations for the future, she expresses gratitude to her readers for their engagement and support. As Nelson continues to evolve, Macdonald remains committed to sharing stories that celebrate the city’s growth and resilience. Best wishes for the year ahead as the community looks forward to new opportunities in 2026.