Kelowna council debate foreshadows pressure on spending

Kathy Michaels - Kelowna Capital News Published: December 07, 2010 7:00 PM
Much ado over what’s relatively nothing at a regular meeting of Kelowna city council offered a bit of insight into upcoming budget deliberations. “If this is any indication…it will be a very interesting day,” said Mayor Sharon Shepherd, following a lengthy conversation among councillors that started over the proposal to add $490 to an annual $8,000 payment to the Central Okanagan Heritage Society. That hike in pay, explained city staffer Maria Stanborough, would reflect the cost of living increases that had passed unacknowledged over the last three years. It was decided in years past that it would be most cost effective to contract the work of distributing $30,000 in grants to the society for the yearly stipend. They assess financial aid applications from Kelowna residents who do work to preserve historic buildings—be they commercial or residential— and answer queries about the nature of the program. The $8,000 contract has been in existence for several years, and is set to continue for more.

“If you look at this, they give $7,500 every quarter, and it costs us $2,000 (each time),” said Coun. Graeme James.  “I just find that very extravagant.”  Coun. Charlie Hodge was on the same page, pointing out that he wouldn’t be “comfortable” adding $490 to a price-tag he already finds exorbitant. “We have a lot of non-profit societies that work for free,” said Coun. Andre Blanleil, pointing out that eventually the cost of the service could surpass the funds doled out.  “So I struggle with this as well…I would support leaving it at $8,000.”  Couns. Robert Hobson and Michele Rule viewed the cost/service ratio more favorably.  “I know the amount of time that staff put in is considerable, and the salary paid is less than $20 an hour,” Hobson said, pointing out that city staff, should they take on the project, would make a lot more.  “It’s a stretch to say it’s extravagant in my view. I think they’re taking an easy target, frankly.”  While the kibitzing continued for some time, the point of the exercise was less about the actual dollar figure than it was looking at the way the city pays for services, argued Coun. Luke Stack. “This is a microcosm,” he said, pointing out that it’s similar to other issues that will come forward in the budget. When all was said and done, council put aside the cost of living adjustment for a later date, noting the society and the $8,000 stipend will be revisited also.