Mission, BC—Mission Council has renewed its request for support from the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs to help resolve ongoing issues and conflicts among members, and to provide the public with an independent assessment of the current situation and the recommended next steps.
The call comes after years of Council trying to proactively improve relationships and professional conduct among members with such activities as:
- Professional mediation
- Training
- Open dialogue and mutual feedback sessions
- Utilizing independent processes as part of Council’s Code of Responsible Conduct
Despite this work, members of Council remain frustrated with the lack of respect for maintaining confidentiality and note that the unauthorized disclosures have resulted in interference, which undermines the ability of this City to carry out its important work.
Furthermore, Council has concerns that these breaches and associated interference may have constituted a violation of sections 102, 103, 108 and 117 of the Community Charter:
- Section 102: Restrictions on inside influence
- Section 103: Restrictions on outside influence
- Section 108: Restrictions on use of insider information
- Section 117: Confidentiality
Council notes in its request that a Municipal Advisor is the next essential step in mending relations and improving the outcome of Council’s work. A Municipal Advisor will also provide an impartial public report, as seen with the City of Kamloops and Village of Harrison Hot Springs, that will help the community understand the ongoing issues and restore confidence in local governance. A report of this nature is imperative for maintaining transparency and building public trust.
A copy of Council’s request to the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs will appear in the Correspondence section of the Aug. 18 agenda.