New council holds inaugural meeting

By JOHN MOORHOUSE/Penticton Herald Tuesday, December 6, 2011 
Mayor Dan Ashton promised to open the lines of communication between city hall and the public as the new Penticton council was sworn into office Monday night.  Council members, including newcomers Helena Konanz and Wes Hopkin, were given their oath of office by Judge Gale Sinclair and invocation by Pastor Darwin Pichette.  In his inaugural address, Ashton admitted the city has to do a better job of communicating with local residents.  “One thing we did not do very well at the city – both staff and council – is communicate with you in a consistent, easy to obtain, easy to read format,” he said. There are plans for a monthly news and city activity summary to be included in monthly utility bills, as well as enhanced use of social media in conjunction with newly revamped city website.  Ashton also opened the door for input from those who rejected council‘s plans to bid for the new provincial jail in the Okanagan.  “They proposed that there are alternative options for the city to consider to make Penticton more prosperous. Well, my door and mind are always open, and I am sure council‘s is,” he said. “I hope you will make the same effort expended available to the community and council to help bring your ideas to fruition.”  Ashton emphasized the city has only two sources of income: revenue and  taxation. “We are not immune to what is happening in the world today, and we need to continue to be cognizant of the current financial status of many of the citizens of Penticton and the ongoing employment issues this city faces.”  The mayor reiterated his promise to address morale issues among city staff following two years of layoffs and fiscal belt-tightening. He added council will continue to work harder, spend smarter and govern more effectively.  “Every department, every staff member, every councillor and especially the mayor will continue to be held accountable for how we spend and utilize your tax dollars,” he said.  “Departmental innovation and efficiency to address expenditures and revenue will not be optional. We are going to continue to work more productively, and  successes and dedication will be rewarded.”  Reporting on the city‘s financial status will continue to be brought forward quarterly, with fourth-quarter results for 2011 available as quickly as possible to keep electors aware of what finances the new council has to work with at the start of its mandate.