The Regional District of Central Okanagan insists it’s not ignoring North Westside concerns.
The North Westside Communities Association is upset that two requests to appear before the RDCO board to discuss a power pole on a beach have been denied.
However, Gail Given, board chairperson, says process is simply being followed.
“By definition, the prime role of the governing body, RDCO board is governance versus operations,” she said.
“Our prime focus must be on policy setting, strategic planning, and the budget setting. The board’s opportunity to provide guidance on individual services comes through our rotation of service reviews and through the budget setting process.”
Given added that operational matters are the primary role of staff and concerns from residents should be directed through staff.
“They are the subject matter experts,” she said.
“As an alternative to a scheduled presentation, citizens do have the option to forward their concerns or presentations to individual board members. This current and historical practice is in support of clear roles and responsibilities.”
Given also says there is a lot before directors when they gather.
“Meetings are frequently running well past the scheduled times and occasionally items are being deferred to subsequent meetings due to time constraints,” she said.
The North Westside Communities Association says a power pole was installed in the wrong location at Killiney Beach Park and it wants the pole relocated.
However, RDCO staff have stated that the pole will remain in its current location.