Editor:
Over 150 residents left the special meeting of Gibsons council at the Legion on May 12, shaking their heads in disbelief, frustration, disgust, anger, and even a sense of betrayal, at the shocking display of micro-managing and fence-sitting by the three first-term councillors.
After detailed and informative presentations of the geotechnical study and related reports on the George Hotel proposal, all of which were positive, it had been fully expected that first reading of the zoning amendment bylaw would be approved as a first step in the development process for further discussion and negotiation with the developer.
At this point, however, councillors Lumley, Valeriote and White, apparently acting in concert, attempted to derail the proposal completely. Although professing support for The George, they questioned the expertise and recommendations of Horizon Engineering, wanted additional information and opinions, and tried to impose arbitrary conditions on the proposal. Protracted wrangling ensued, on and on, over amendments and procedures.
Shortly before 10 p.m., the motion to approve first reading was begrudgingly carried. Finally, reason had prevailed — thanks to Mayor Wayne Rowe’s leadership. In the process, however, those three councillors had revealed a woeful ignorance, or disregard, of their proper role on council, of previous studies, of failed developments and proposals (e.g. Gospel Rock, Shoal Bay), of the development process, and most importantly, of the cash-strapped Town’s dire need for increased tax revenue from developments such as the George Hotel.
Councillors, no more waste of time playing around the edges. Study the history, do your homework and get on with the job!
Art Olson, Gibsons
