Our city has an appalling record when it comes to the preservation of its historic buildings.

If Edmonton is to retain any of its warmth, uniqueness and character, the practice of allowing a historic building to deteriorate to the point where City Council feels it has a sufficient excuse to tear it down must end.

Despite the stated commitment to planning initiatives, particularly downtown, to protect our history and architecture, historic buildings are still being demolished and significantly altered. For example, proper consideration of historic buildings is not part of the University of Alberta's current plan to redevelop the North Garneau area. Where is City Council on this issue?

As a result of poor planning and a pitiful commitment to historic preservation, Edmonton has a seriously depleted inventory of older buildings, which are the very foundation of the character of our city. We must redouble our efforts to protect, preserve and restore the ones we have left. The alternative is a sterile community that is indistinguishable from any of the other cookie cutter cities in North America.

A real commitment to preserving historic buildings exists in actions, not in empty, un-enforced planning rhetoric.