By RICHARD ROLKEMorning Star Staff
Vernon's mayor is claiming victory over allegations of wrongdoing.The City of Vernon has received legal opinions upholding its decision to provide $738,000 for infrastructure in the Anderson business park on 48th Avenue although a property owner-based specified area was in place."Everything the city did was correct and transparent," said Mayor Sean Harvey."This council conducts public business openly and is not worried about challenges."Concerns about the city's actions arose from both Coun. Barry Beardsell and resident Bob Spiers, who lodged a complaint under provincial legislation.Despite the rulings from auditors and lawyers, Spiers still isn't impressed with the city's handling of the matter."The real question was never answered. Did the city have the right to charge taxpayers for these costs without proper notice, open consultation or opportunity for counter-petition?" said Spiers."The city did have the right to partner with the specified area and the procedure to do so. It had to simply notify the public in our local newspaper and give them the opportunity to object if they so desired."Beardsell still believes the entire issue revolves around ethics."What was done was wrong - using $738,000 of taxpayers' money," he said, adding that the property owners there should have covered all costs."Council had the right to make the decision it did but it should have been up front with the public."Because of Spiers filing a complaint, the city was required to launch an investigation. That cost $7,800, something Harvey stands by."It was an expensive opinion but it's important when doing the public's business to do it in a transparent and open fashion," said Harvey.
Wed July 28 morning star
