Council gives more power to committees
City council adopted a new governance model Monday night following a lengthy debate over one councillor’s concerns the system threatens transparency and democracy.
Several councillors appeared upset by concerns raised by Coun. Pat Lorje — who called some of the new rules “draconian” — about a new approach that would delegate more power to council committees while reducing council meetings from twice a month to once.
Coun. Darren Hill called Lorje’s concerns about reduced transparency, openness and accessibility under a new system that would start in August “ridiculous” and “offensive.”
Coun. Eric Olauson also expressed some concern that he cannot represent his constituents on a committee on which he is not a member.
“All of you are so offended that I did not want to go along with this particular change,” said Lorje in response to a couple of spirited critiques of her concerns. “I think we will find the public will feel they are not being well served.”
Mayor Don Atchison said he shares some concerns about the new system and suggested the change be reviewed after it has been implemented for a year.
Most councillors disagreed strongly with Lorje and said the move will make council decisions more transparent.
“I think the real work gets done at committee,” said Coun. Randy Donauer. “We are opening the doors to committees.
“I think this is way more open and transparent.”
Until Olauson spoke up Monday night, it appeared Lorje was alone in opposing the changes.
“There’s just this one small spot that’s a sticking point for me,” said Olauson of giving more power to committees. “That’s what I’m really struggling with. I see it as a slippery slope.”
Under the new rules, some items would appear before council as a whole on a consent agenda that have already received approval.
“I have certainly heard positive comments from the public,” said Coun. Ann Iwanchuk. “I have not heard anything negative.”
City solicitor Patricia Warwick said concerns about the bylaw can be addressed as they are encountered.
“This bylaw is written on paper,” said Warwick. “It is not written in stone.”