Alternate Approval Process forges ahead

“My concern is to make this [process] as transparent as possible, ”noted Councillor Skakun, who added it is nothing like a home renovation in that “the taxpayers are footing the bill” for the project.

“We felt that not enough information had been given to residents and I think there was a bit of misinformation about what we were going to do at CN Centre, what the costs were going to be.”

Councillor Kyle Sampson also pointed out that Section 17 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act allows municipal governments to withhold certain information to protect the public.

“It gives municipalities the opportunity to withhold information from going public while it may put the municipality at a financial risk. That information will go public but it stops it from jeopardizing the City’s interests.”

It was also pointed out that public agencies, like a municipality as at a disadvantage as compared to the private sector in that it has to reveal their budgets in advance of a project, lessening the competitive process.

Under the legislation, elector response forms are made available at City Hall and on the City’s website. If 10 per cent or more of the total number of eligible electors sign and submit response forms, the City cannot proceed with the proposed matter without first holding an assent vote, such as a referendum.

Ultimately, the majority of Council found the information presented was sufficient for residents to make an information and Councillor Skakun says that’s democracy at its finest.

“You’re always disappointed when something doesn’t fly. I understand some of my colleagues comments and concerns. It’s a democratic process.”

The total budget for the project is $15.86 million ($11.67 million in construction costs the remainder in ancillary costs).

The deadline to submit a response form is June 2.

by Cheryl Jahn

Alternate Approval Process forges ahead

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