Editor:
Seems it’s “open season” on Councillors Lumley and White. They are being openly harangued by George project supporters for not marching blindly to the George drum regardless of the complex information that is before them. “Inquiries” at the July 7 council meeting, reprised in last week’s Coast Reporter, seemed designed to shame the councillors into toeing the line on the George.
The basic thread is that George supporters had thought the two were “on their side,” and now they’re not. It’s a long way from the campaign doorstep to the council table. As a voter, regardless of what I thought I heard on the doorstep, I would hope that any responsible council member would feel free to adjust his pre-election position on any issue if significant information indicated it was the right thing to do, and I would have to respect him for doing so.
At least Coun. Lumley was present at council to explain himself, unlike Coun. White, who was on vacation.
Silas White’s (legally advised) declaration of conflict of interest took many of us by surprise. Of greater surprise to me is the unbridled assault his declaration unleashed. He is accused in print and social media of betrayal, a lack of integrity, poor judgment, and worse.
It must have been a difficult decision for Coun. White to recuse himself from discussions on the hottest issue in town. Undoubtedly, he is frustrated at not being able to comment or provide a fifth opinion at the council table.
To paraphrase Coun. Lumley, the George isn’t the only issue with which council will grapple this term. Maybe it’s time to take a step back, get off our high horses, and stop the attacks. Encourage our councillors to dig for facts, think critically, and act honourably in Gibsons’ best interests, long term.
Katie Janyk, Gibsons
