Court ruling a Games-changer
The repercussions of a recent decision in the Court of Appeal in a case that doesn’t involve the city were felt at Monday’s council meeting when Coun. Lyn Hall resigned his position as director of the Prince George Winter Games Host Society.
The change in law means councillors cannot sit on the boards of not-for-profit societies when council has an interest in that society and may vote on matters within council chambers that involve that society.
“It’s a very recent change in law,” Walter Babicz, manager of legislative services for the city, said.
Coun. Cameron Stolz asked if the change would affect council’s ability to have someone sit on the library board.
“No. It’s a different type of organization,” Babicz said.
Coun. Murry Krause said he is pleased with the judgment, which provides clarity to many of those who serve in the city. He pointed out the job of a councillor is quite different from that of a director.
Mayor Shari Green said the impact of the decision would be felt province-wide.
Coun. Brian Skakun confirmed that a councillor who doesn’t rectify these conflicts may lose his or her seat in the next election.
“There is a potential to lose the seat in the next election, but there is a long road to that process,” Babicz said.
He said the Union of British Columbia Municipalities is studying the ramifications of the decision.
Council voted unanimously to accept Les Waldie’s appointment to the position.
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