Sidestepping the issue

By Richard RolkeJun 06 2007 http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/

Whether intentional or accidental, Vernon’s elected officials are clouding the issue of borrowing $20 million without going to referendum. When asked why they opted for a process that requires people to sign a petition in opposition instead of the traditional referendum, most council members state time is running out for a new library/administration building, and a referendum would create more delays. “There is a real need for space for the city and the RCMP and it would also be a good home for the art gallery,” said Coun. Pat Cochrane. “We need a library and the RCMP need expanded space,” added Coun. Patrick Nicol. I can’t disagree with any of that, and I suspect that except for a small handful of people, there is broad recognition in the community that these services require attention. However, none of this is the point of public concern.

The issue at hand is whether $20 million and all of the impacts on individual taxpayers should hinge on an alternate approval process that isn’t understood by residents or if there should be a full-scale referendum, a hallmark of democracy and the best model for residents to have a say on how their money is spent? Referendums have been used before, whether it was for the Multiplex, the Performing Arts Centre, purchasing park land or upgrading the water utility. But apparently everyone is too afraid to go that route this time because prolonging the matter may jeopardize access to provincial grants for a new library. First of all, what have the city and ORL-been doing for all of these months? Why weren’t firm details in place so public consultation could be done properly? Some would suggest that the current situation says more about shortfalls at the city and ORL than the prospect of the province withholding cash. And secondly, if government grants were required before something was built, absolutely nothing would get done. As an example, Greater Vernon’s water utility has been improved at great expense to taxpayers, with virtually a trickle of cash coming from Victoria. The bottom line is there are no guarantees about provincial grants and the city and ORL should not mislead the public over their importance.

City officials insist that public opinion is important and there will be an opportunity for residents to attend information sessions in June. But while that’s all well and good, those sessions will provide specifics about the proposed building and its uses and not the process — or the lack thereof — to garner approval. Now is the time for open discussion about process, even if it is rank-and-file citizens who have to initiate such dialogue themselves. If you are so inclined, give your council a call:
Mayor Wayne Lippert - 545-1361
Coun. Buffy Baumbrough - 550-6820
Coun. Barry Beardsell - 542-2296
Coun. Pat Cochrane - 545-0139
Coun. Juliette Cunningham - 550-6822
Coun. Jack Gilroy - 550-6824
Coun. Patrick Nicol - 545-2141

All of these individuals were elected based on providing open and accountable government. But with the exception of Beardsell, who has come out against the process, the rest are moving in a different direction when they deny a referendum.