Klassen defends independent stance, calls for greater accountability at city hall

According to Klassen, the whistleblower policy remains a major concern because employees cannot make complaints anonymously. She argued that anonymity is a critical component of any effective whistleblower system and that the current framework falls short.

She was equally critical of council’s code of conduct, saying it places too much authority in the hands of the city manager when it comes to investigating complaints involving councillors.

“When you have a code of conduct where virtually the power to investigate a complaint lies with the city manager, that’s not good governance,” Klassen said.

Klassen acknowledged that governance issues can be difficult for the public to follow but believes they contribute to voter disengagement.

“What you see is people not voting,” she said. “When you’ve got 25 to 30 per cent of people voting, that means people are apathetic.”

Klassen said drawing attention to council voting patterns was intended to highlight broader conversations about accountability and decision-making at City Hall.

Another priority for Klassen is a comprehensive review of city bylaws. She argued that some municipal regulations have not been examined in decades and may no longer reflect current realities. As an example, she referenced a recent dispute involving backyard beekeeping, suggesting the situation exposed ambiguities within existing zoning regulations.

“Some of our bylaws haven’t been looked at for 20 years,” Klassen said. “I think a thorough review is necessary.”

She acknowledged such a process would involve significant work but said it would ultimately lead to more efficient and effective local government.

Despite raising concerns about governance practices, Klassen rejected the suggestion that council has been largely dysfunctional during the current term.

She noted that council members have worked together successfully on numerous issues, including efforts to address the former encampment at Moccasin Flats.

“We’ve worked together well on a number of things,” she said.

Looking ahead to the next council term, Klassen said she would like to see more direct and detailed strategic planning discussions led by both council and the mayor, rather than relying primarily on broad, high-level planning documents.

Prince George voters will elect a mayor, eight councillors and school trustees when general voting day takes place on Saturday, October 17.

This story is part of our continuing coverage of the 2026 Prince George municipal election campaign, featuring interviews with candidates seeking election to mayor and council.

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Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com

by Adam Berls

Klassen defends independent stance, calls for greater accountability at city hall

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