Fairbairn continues as RDNO chairperson

by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Dec 9, 2015 at 6:00 PM
It was a repeat of last year's showdown and the outcome didn't change. Just as occurred in December 2014, Rural Lumby director Rick Fairbairn was nominated for Regional District of North Okanagan chairperson Wednesday as was Vernon director Juliette Cunningham. And the results were the same with Fairbairn collecting the most votes. "I'm looking forward to another 12 months," said Fairbairn. When it came to selecting vice-chairperson, Cunningham was nominated as was Lumby director Kevin Acton, who has held the position for the past term. It took two tie votes and a coin toss for Acton to reclaim the post. Fairbairn says his goal as chairperson is to work with the other directors. "I've had ample opportunities to take advantage of some of the issues brought forward by board members," he said. "I've done my job to be honest and fair to conduct the business at hand." Cunningham had made a pitch for a communications plan and for RDNO to seek input from residents more. "What are the key issues facing us that are barriers?" she said. Wednesday's meeting was called to order by John Baumbrough, RDNO's first chairperson, as the regional district marks its 50th anniversary. "Fifty years, I can't believe it," said Baumbrough.