To the Editor,
Re: Two councillors resign from Lantzville district, April 30.
Why do taxpayers have to foot the bill for byelections created by quitters? Whether it’s Jim Prentice in Alberta, or Lantzville councillors, or finding a safe seat for Christy Clark, taxpayers should not have to pay for the ensuing byelections.
All nomination papers for public office in Canada should contain a clause that, if elected, the nominee agrees to serve till the next election – unless prevented from doing so by death or serious illness. If that elected official quits, for any other reason, they would be responsible for the cost of the byelection.
This would not be unique since many other employment contracts contain penalty clauses for quitting early. And if such a clause weeds out those who quit when they don’t get their way, or when they get bored, or when they get a better offer – that would seem like a bonus, not a liability.
S.I. PetersenNanaimo
To the Editor,
Re: Lantzville residents have lost confidence in district governance, Letters, May 5.
The District of Lantzville Canadian Union of Public Employees members wish to thank Mayor Colin Haime and current council members for their endeavours to create a respectful and positive workplace.
We are pleased and we fully support their ongoing dedication toward positive change. The efforts put forward to find some lasting solutions to our shared concerns across council, management and union lines are appreciated regardless of any spin or attempts to subscribe motives by others not truly familiar with the issues.
We believe that the process undertaken will result in a more efficient, cohesive and ultimately better environment in which we can continue to focus on the provision of services to our community.
Blaine Gurriepresident, CUPE Local 401