Tonight was the first Port Coquitlam City Council meeting since the election in November. Here is how the council voted on two of the issues along with some commentary from me.
Waterworks Regulation Bylaw No. 3657
This sets out the water rates for 2009 and this is where the water grant for seniors could have be restored. During the 2008 civic campaign, I said I would work to restore the grant. However, the majority of council disagreed. The two Councillors who voted NO did so because the water grant for seniors was not part of the plan.
As first three readings were completed tonight, public hearing on this issue should take place in early January. If you agree or disagree with this vote, come out to the public hearing and voice your concerns / opinions. I know I will.
YES (5)
Forrest Penner Pollock Wright
Moore
NO (2)
Carroll West
Road Closure Bylaw No. 3659 for 2048 Suffolk Avenue (Bay City Kia)
This gives Bay City Kia the right to close a public lane in order to assist with their business to the detriment of the residents. This is a long standing issue with the neighbourhood which I have been seeking Council help for almost two years. In fact, later tonight I will post some helpful hints to the new Councillors as to how they can help fix this mess. Our thanks to Councillors Penner and West for voting NO.
As first three readings were completed tonight, public hearing on this issue should take place in early January. If you agree or disagree with this vote, come out to the public hearing and voice your concerns / opinions. I know I will.
YES (5)
Carroll Forrest Pollock Wright
Moore
NO (2)
Penner West
May I ask where is the vote from our Mayor? Isn’t he also make a difference on this issues? It’s a sad day for Poco seniors, very sad indeed.
Also, from city hall: Some employees are talking how people are being appointed to committees and being favored!!!
Hello David.
I have now included Mayor Moore’s vote (both YES). Oversight on my part as I wrote down the Councillor’s vote and missed the Mayor’s.
This issue is not over as a public hearing will be scheduled in the New Year on (I would guess) either January 14th or 28th. If you wish to speak on this issue and influence the final decision, the public hearing is your time to do so. As the 28th is a non-televised meeting it will be interesting to see if Council holds one or both of the above Public Hearings on that day.
In my view, it is important to show the Public Hearings so other folks can see the process and get involved in the future.
As for committee appointments, you should bring this up with Mayor Moore. To the best of my knowledge, Councillor’s are appointed to Committees which suit their experience and skill set. Citizen members are appointed in the same manner after applying via a public application process.
I will post the Public Hearing dates on this website once known.