Island consolidation idea hits brick wall
Times Colonist
May 25, 2014
B.C. Liberal Party members defeated a resolution Saturday that urged consolidation of local governments on southern Vancouver Island.
The idea came from Cowichan Valley and Saanich North and the Islands riding groups. It also recommended provincial or independent oversight on municipal spending, which raised the ire of a number of delegates who spoke against it.
Kelowna Mayor Walter Gray objected to the tone of the resolution, saying it would have the effect of picking on places such as Kelowna. While the South Island may be over-governed, he said the resolution should be redrafted.
Others said the provincial government has lots to do and doesn’t need to be overseeing local government spending.
The idea also involved more powers to the local government auditor general to police spending, which a delegate said would involve still more spending.
© Copyright Times Colonist
Times Colonist
May 25, 2014
B.C. Liberal Party members defeated a resolution Saturday that urged consolidation of local governments on southern Vancouver Island.
The idea came from Cowichan Valley and Saanich North and the Islands riding groups. It also recommended provincial or independent oversight on municipal spending, which raised the ire of a number of delegates who spoke against it.
Kelowna Mayor Walter Gray objected to the tone of the resolution, saying it would have the effect of picking on places such as Kelowna. While the South Island may be over-governed, he said the resolution should be redrafted.
Others said the provincial government has lots to do and doesn’t need to be overseeing local government spending.
The idea also involved more powers to the local government auditor general to police spending, which a delegate said would involve still more spending.
© Copyright Times Colonist
