Editor:
I was surprised to see the numerous attacks on Silas White over his decision to recuse himself from decisions on the George, which seem to come from both supporters and opponents of the George project. It would appear that Coun. White has made the correct decision, based on advice from the Town’s own legal counsel.
With so many politicians failing to remove themselves from potential conflicts, we should applaud those who do the right thing. Failure to recuse himself could potentially open up any decision on the George, for or against, to future legal action.
It is unfair to accuse him of not knowing in advance of the election that he would be in a position of conflict. Most of those who ran for council could be impacted in some way by the George project, whether in economic terms or views. I think most people would be surprised for Coun. White to be singled out in this regard, given that most development would block his view, even if substantially shorter than the proposed George.
Much of the criticism seems to come from those who believed they had “guaranteed” support for the George project. All members of council should be keeping an open mind until all reports and public meetings are finalized. To do otherwise is disrespectful of the process and of the public. There is no conflict between supporting the George and believing it could be improved to meet the community’s needs.
Finally, no politician should be a single-issue candidate. There are many important decisions to be made by council over the next three and a half years. I fully expect Coun. White will continue to make thoughtful, balanced decisions for the benefit of all Gibsons residents.
Michael Wilson, Gibsons
