We’ve never seen anything quite like it.
A municipal election was fought last year in Gibsons largely over a single project that could reshape and redefine the town’s treasured harbour area – the George. Essentially two slates ran, and the slate seen as pro-George (though not unconditionally so) swept the polls in one of the highest turnouts in the province. And topping the polls for four seats on council was former school trustee Silas White. White received more votes than even Mayor Wayne Rowe.
Clearly, White inspired confidence amongst a wide range of voters, who felt his would be a steady hand on the wheel, thoughtfully supporting – but also helping to correct, if need be – council’s course forward.
Then came the bombshell. Earlier this month, White declared himself in a conflict of interest over the George and has recused himself from any further deliberations on the project. His reason is that his property has a unique view corridor that would be blocked by the development. He is following the advice given by the Town’s lawyer and regretted not having sought a legal opinion earlier, he said in a written report to council.
Judging by the uproar following the news, White’s decision has riled people on both sides of the George divide. Whether ardently pro-George or passionately anti-George (in its present form), many readers have expressed shock and deep disappointment in the rookie councillor’s move. Some are even calling for White to step down.
It’s not just about voting on the project, as a 2-2 vote would still defeat a motion, if it came to that. It’s about governance. It’s about listening to and distilling the people’s will when they come forward at a public hearing, finding creative solutions or compromises to apparent stalemates, and, if the project goes ahead, carefully guiding that process. In all these areas, White was seen as a heavy hitter, a proven negotiator with sound community principles.
Suddenly, all of those strengths have been nullified.
There are three options for Coun. White. He can obtain a second legal opinion, one that takes into account the relative conflict of interest that could be ascribed to any Lower Gibsons property owner in relation to a project as significant as the George. He can step down and be replaced in a byelection. Or he can stand by his decision and let it ride, even though he will be widely perceived as a lame-duck councillor, at least for the current phase of this four-year term.
There’s no easy way out of this one.
