At last night's (May 15) City Council meeting, Council voted 4-2 to change the start time of Council meetings after the upcoming municipal election.

The change was suggested as part of preparations for October's election, so that it could be included in the candidate's packages.

With the change, the in camera portion of the meeting will begin at 1:30pm, followed by the public meeting at 3:30pm. A half hour dinner break will take place at 5:00pm, with all public input, such as public question period and public hearings, beginning at 5:30.

City Clerk Sharon Pollyck explained that the change would mean an earlier end time, and also ensured that Councillors could remain fresh for decisions that need to be made later in the meeting.

After a question from Councillor Allan Hunter, Pollyck explained that the proposal was not being brought on request of council, but was based on observations of meetings over the last 18 months. The majority of meetings (64%) finish after 9:00pm, and 34% finish after 10:00pm.

Councillor Candice Kolson supported the change, saying that serving on Council is a paid position, not a volunteer position. Responding to comments by her colleagues, she said that the meetings inconvenience each member of council equally.

Councillor Darrell Belyk did not support the change, saying many people considering candidacy in the upcoming election work full time and may not be able to get the time off. This comment was similar to comments made on social media, that such a change could present a barrier for people considering running for council.

Mayor Peter Brown also supported the change, saying Council meetings only occur twice a month and the change would not eliminate public input. Councillors Fred Burley and Ron Chapan also supported the change, while Councillor Hunter joined Councillor Belyk in opposing it.

 

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