Photo credit: globalnews.ca
In Kelowna, B.C., a public confrontation arose during a recent city council meeting, where Councillor Ron Cannan accused Mayor Tom Dyas of exhibiting bullying behavior. The exchange took place as Cannan voiced his concerns regarding a policy centered on procurement, which emphasizes the importance of purchasing Canadian products and services.
Cannan had previously submitted a motion to reassess this policy, advocating for a stronger focus on local purchasing. His plans to discuss the matter further in an interview with Global News were abruptly called off after the mayor advised him to refrain from media engagements on the topic.
During the meeting, Cannan expressed, “To me it felt like you’re bullying me, telling me that I don’t understand the policy.” Cannan emphasized to Dyas that all nine council members often have differing viewpoints, highlighting that Dyas had effectively stifled his voice during discussions.
Following the council meeting, both Cannan and Dyas were unavailable for interviews. However, Dyas confidently defended his stance, asserting that he is not silencing councillors. “Councillors are elected and are free to share their opinions with the media. That’s democracy,” he stated.
Yet, the mayor insisted that, according to the city’s code of conduct, he should act as the primary spokesperson for the council. Dyas also pointed out that inappropriate remarks from councillors that filter into the media can detract from the council’s objectives.
Dyas referenced comments made by Councillor Mohini Singh, who suggested that the design of a new city sign should come from a Canadian artist. Dyas clarified that all five finalists for the project were already Canadian, urging caution before making statements that could adversely impact the city’s reputation.
“I am not anyone’s boss, and I do not dictate what councillors can say,” Dyas clarified. “But I believe it’s essential to follow proper processes, which involves debating issues at the council table first.”
Public sentiment in Kelowna regarding Dyas’s directive to limit media communications among councillors appears divided. Resident Anita Haney voiced her disagreement with the restriction, asserting that councillors should be able to express themselves freely. Conversely, Marilyn Garnett expressed ambivalence, indicating a slight inclination to side with the mayor. Gertrude Welder acknowledged the importance of discussing issues within council but felt Dyas’s directive may have been overly strong.
In support of his position, Dyas reiterated that his guidance aims to protect the integrity of council decisions and foster trust within the community. He emphasized the importance of thoroughly deliberating issues before making them public, stating, “When we take the time to get things right, we strengthen confidence in our work under the community charter.”
Source
globalnews.ca