Core service review gets the green light at Vernon city hall

Administration instructed to proceed with request for proposals for consultant

Coun. Bob Spiers says a core service review is needed to show if the City of Vernon is operating efficiently.

Coun. Bob Spiers says a core service review is needed to show if the City of Vernon is operating efficiently.

A long-promised scrutiny of operations is moving ahead at the City of Vernon.

Council approved the terms of reference for a core service review Monday, and administration is expected to report back on the search for a review consultant Sept. 10.

“I’m happy we’re finally moving ahead,” said Coun. Bob Spiers, who has pushed for a review for years and garnered the support of his colleagues after last year’s election.

Spiers describes the city as not being financially sustainable and says there is a need to look at expenditures and new sources of revenue. However, he won’t provide the consultant with any guidance.

“I won’t pre-judge what comes out of it,” said Spiers of the review.

It’s possible the results of the review could be before council for consideration in early 2013.

“We want information that allows us to have a sustainable budget process,” said Mayor Rob Sawatzky, adding there is also a need to ensure that the services residents want are provided.

 

Vernon Morning Star