Council defends committee change

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star - November 18, 2007

Coun. Barry Beardsell is fuming over being tossed from a longtime role, but colleagues defend the move. As part of 2008 appointments to various boards, Mayor Wayne Lippert did not name Beardsell to the Greater Vernon Services Committee, a position he has held for numerous years. “I don’t regard it as a slap in the face,” said Coun. Pat Cochrane, referring to comments made by Beardsell Tuesday. Cochrane believes rotation of city representatives is positive so different views come to the forefront and so all councillors gain experience.“In the 11 years he has been on council, he has served continuously on parks and recreation and the North Okanagan Water Authority, which evolved into GVSC,” said Cochrane.“I am not sure of anyone serving on a committee for that length of time.”

Coun. Juliette Cunningham also supports Lippert’s decision. “The goal is to expose different councillors to functions we participate in,” she said. That is also the view of Coun. Jack Gilroy. “Barry has said he may not run again next year so the mayor needs others to learn things,” he said. Coun. Patrick Nicol can understand some of Beardsell’s frustration. “Any time when you think you have done a good job, it’s a natural reaction but each person is elected by the public and they deserve an opportunity,” said Nicol. Nicol has been removed from the North Okanagan Regional District as part of committee appointments. Coun. Buffy Baumbrough pointed out that it is up to the mayor to determine committee appointments.

Beardsell insists that he should still be at GVSC. “I have got the best background on what has transpired there,” he said. “My overriding concern is the governance being looked at for the Okanagan and the service reviews and the determination of the future of GVSC.” When asked if he would resign or not attend meetings he has been assigned to, Beardsell would not speculate. “I will have a statement to make later. I am marshalling my thoughts,” he said.

Lippert hopes Beardsell remains committed to council activities, and he says Beardsell will continue to be part of service reviews at GVSC. “I expect and hope his expertise will still be there,” said Lippert. The Vernon Taxpayers Association believes Lippert has made a mistake. “Coun. Beardsell is the only one who has shown common sense and is prepared to take a stand on issues,” said Tony Stamboulieh, spokesman.“I am sorry to see the mayor has dispensed with such a talent but I am not surprised.”