It was another back-and-forth between Mayor George Harvie and members of council last Monday.
A motion that had been put forward by Coun. Jennifer Johal asked that other members of council also be given the opportunity to address the public, including recent activities attended by councillors, something that sees the current procedure only afford the mayor the chance to make an address near the start of meetings.
Johal said the change would enhance transparency and encourages the sharing of important information, updates and community events attended.
When the motion was put forward at council’s previous meeting, Harvie remarked it was a good idea, but on Nov. 4, he suggested that council do away with public addresses all together to improve the efficiency of meetings.
Harvie said staff found only about 100 people tune in to see the live council meetings on the Internet, compared to the city’s social media pages having thousands of followers.
He noted announcements on things like key events and commemorations were in place for many years before he became mayor, but in today’s digital world, residents don’t solely rely on council meetings to stay updated.
“I’m suggesting to make our council meetings more focused and efficient, I propose we consider removing announcements from the regular meeting agenda and, instead, encourage residents to stay connected to the city’s social media accounts, as well as the mayor and council’s social platforms, our website, and local news outlets for the latest updates,” said Harvie.
Johal was strongly opposed that recommendation, saying she was surprised since he had previously said it was a good motion put forward and Harvie’s “current stand seems to undermine the true spirits of this motion.”
She argued the purpose was to create a platform within council meetings that fosters inclusivity, transparency and enhances the relationship between council and the community.
“By scrapping the announcements, I think that it’s doing a true disservice to our community…I also think we’re reducing the opportunity for all of council to participate and share important information,” she noted.
She later added the idea came from a recent good governance workshop where inclusivity and equity were discussed.
“I feel we’re just maybe stepping four steps forward and eight back by scrapping a motion and moving it to an online platform which we already have,” said Johal.
Coun. Dylan Kruger agreed, stressing the importance of transparency and saying councillors should have opportunities to report on their various committees.
Coun. Dan Boisvert noted that when he was a trustee on the school board, all trustees had the option of providing an update on their recent activities, something he had assumed would also be an option when he ran for council.
Harvie countered he was only offering a suggestion and all members of council are entitled to bring up options for discussion.
Council, including Harvie, voted in favour of having the city report back on the process and any requirements to have all members of council have the option to make an address.
