Merritt Councillor receives leadership certificate merrittherald.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from merrittherald.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
Pandemic budgets were balanced mostly by delaying or cancelling capital projects, drawing down reserves, increasing various fees, and, of course, successfully lobbying for senior government handouts. The handouts, unfortunately, had the unintended consequence of councils dodging much-needed structural changes and taking bold steps to get their financial house in order. No apparent need to consolidate services, moderate salaries, merge municipalities, rationalize staffing, and substantially reduce the tax demand. It raises the question: Are local politicians sufficiently skilled in managing our finances, given their job will be much more difficult for the foreseeable future? Does additional skill training need to be offered?
Comment: Municipal councillors lack financial skills needed to deal with complex budgets timescolonist.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from timescolonist.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
“We are aware of the situation and ministry staff are reaching out to staff in the local government of Qualicum Beach to offer resources and support,” a ministry official said in a statement. Coun. Robert Filmer, 22, is taking a two-month leave because of the “toxic” environment at city hall, describing it as unsafe and unkind. Qualicum Beach Mayor Brian Wiese disagrees and said remaining council members will continue to work on the strategic plan and long-term goals for the community. Council members look forward to Filmer returning, the mayor said. Today, there are only three members on what is normally a five-member council in Qualicum Beach. Adam Walker was on council but resigned after being elected MLA for Parksville-Qualicum in the recent provincial election.