Article content You have got to be kidding me. Why does everything that crosses our path require compensation? This is just another grab for votes, nothing more. Rien Olthoff, London It was civic duty I live near the Oakridge arena, which was converted to a COVID-19 assessment centre for over a year. While I understand the frustrations of those who live on the same street as the assessment centre — enduring blocked driveways during testing peak time, etc. — and shared in the temporary loss of the swimming pool and arena, I think public funds would be better spent in other areas, such as homelessness or ensuring every neighbourhood has access to recreational amenities.