Demands for transparency surface at Vernon city hall

Councillor wants the public to know how votes transpired behind closed doors

Vernon Coun. Bob Spiers wants details of confidential council votes released to the public.

Vernon Coun. Bob Spiers wants details of confidential council votes released to the public.

A glimmer of light may be shed on some proceedings at Vernon city hall.

Coun. Bob Spiers has brought forward a notice of motion that calls on councillors’ voting records in private meetings to be made public once the final outcome is declassified.

“It’s good and open government,” said Coun. Bob Spiers.

While some councillors have previously disclosed how they have voted in-camera, there is some question as to whether they are breaking provincial legislation by disclosing details from a private session.

The issue of how councillors have voted in-camera recently surfaced with decisions on not renewing a service contract with Okanagan Landing firefighters and bidding on Ironman Canada.

Spiers says there is a need for clear rules.

“Nobody should have to hide behind in-camera on how they voted,” he said.

Spiers’ notice of motion will be considered by council Oct. 9.

Vernon Morning Star