To the Editor,
Re: Lantzville council exodus continues with third resignation, May 22.
Poor Lantzville has been kneecapped by two new councillors and one returning incumbent who discovered within a few months of taking their oath of office, that the new council is “dysfunctional.” Three out of seven – fascinating.
Could it be that the two newly elected members and one incumbent were less than sincere in campaigning on a desire to truly serve their community and work together for the benefit of all its citizens?
This is not a new problem. The previous Lantzville council was faction-ridden. There were toxic animosities among specific councillors toward others, evident at practically every meeting. The new council began its term with a carry-over of some old grudges, and the added friction of strong opposition to the new mayor overwhelmingly elected on a commitment to seek an improved water agreement with Nanaimo, and financial prudence.
What should have been confidentially handled senior staff complaints quickly became public through improper leaks of information.
There’s something reminiscent of American Tea Party obstructionism going on in our tiny community. Lantzville voters have been terribly ill-served by some freshly elected councillors whose resignations are for reasons that are far from clear.
We need a council that will strive to co-operate, unite, and serve the community – respectfully give administrative direction, and leave personality conflicts behind.
Garry GaudetLantzville