Politicians’ demands for information resulted in a heated debate with staff.
Some Greater Vernon Advisory Committee members were in a verbal back-and-forth with administrator Trafford Hall when they asked for a regular update on initiatives.
“There are a lot of items staff is dealing with and motions from this committee,” said director Catherine Lord.
“I just want to know that progress is being made. It gives us a better handle of where we’re at.”
That request brought a sharp response from Hall, who says it would place time pressure on Regional District of North Okanagan staff.
“It can’t just be done by a secretary. It has to be done by senior managers who are already stretched,” he said.
Hall suggested additional resources may be needed for staff to put together updates. He also stated that a report will not consider the full scope of work underway.
“It’s also discouraging because it’s a list of things not done when so many things are being done.”
Hall indicated that it’s the responsibility of directors to pursue updates on matters of concern.
“My recommendation is you keep your own files and bring them back,” he said.
However, Lord continued to demand a progress report.
“It’s a one-page sheet. We used to do it in Coldstream and we’re getting our administrator in the city to do it,” said Lord, who is a former Coldstream treasurer and a current councillor in Vernon.
Support for Lord came from director Doug Dirk.
“If we provide (a request for) the information we want, all he has to do is respond,” said Dirk of Hall.
In the end, directors approved a motion directing Hall to provide a regular update on issues that are actively being pursued by GVAC.
