Victoria council’s new code of conduct is a good start but in light of recent events, the council may find it needs to go much further.
Since incorporation in 1862 council has not been subject to a code of conduct laying out ethical guidelines for members’ behaviour in and outside chambers. That changed though when the province mandated – years after many other governments, institutions and organizations – that every municipality develop a code or explain the reason to the public.
So before the ink was even dry on the code, a rookie councillor signed an inflammatory petition on the Israel-Hamas War. It was done without the knowledge or authorization of council, and by a councillor who has the responsibility to represent the entire City of Victoria community. Councillor Susan Kim offered a statement Nov. 20 on Instagram and a second apology a few days later.
It prompted questions looking for answers.
Why was the first important test of the new code of conduct left on the sidelines during the uproar? Was the idea even tabled at a closed council meeting but voted down by like-minded individuals and the dominant voting block?
Since incorporation in 1862 council has not been subject to a code of conduct laying out ethical guidelines for members’ behaviour in and outside chambers. That changed though when the province mandated – years after many other governments, institutions and organizations – that every municipality develop a code or explain the reason to the public.
So before the ink was even dry on the code, a rookie councillor signed an inflammatory petition on the Israel-Hamas War. It was done without the knowledge or authorization of council, and by a councillor who has the responsibility to represent the entire City of Victoria community. Councillor Susan Kim offered a statement Nov. 20 on Instagram and a second apology a few days later.
It prompted questions looking for answers.
Why was the first important test of the new code of conduct left on the sidelines during the uproar? Was the idea even tabled at a closed council meeting but voted down by like-minded individuals and the dominant voting block?
Did council feel uncomfortable about filing a complaint against one of their own? How is it there is no provision in the code of conduct that speaks to these ill-advised actions? As recommended by the MNP Governance Review, wouldn’t the appointment of an integrity commissioner have dealt with the issue better?
Has council established a policy regarding its role in matters beyond core municipal responsibility? Why shouldn’t public complaints be allowed? Why wait two years to review the code?
When used it’s hoped the new code of conduct and the 10 potential remedies (which include removing board and committee duties) will help pave the way for more self improvement. Until then, council will need to keep a closer eye on themselves.
When used it’s hoped the new code of conduct and the 10 potential remedies (which include removing board and committee duties) will help pave the way for more self improvement. Until then, council will need to keep a closer eye on themselves.
How many were running for council ? Way too many ! I did my research, and, because I am retired, I had the time to look everyone up. How many voters had the time to do that ?
There definitely should be some vetting, and some restrictions on the # of candidates.
I also think some voters believed that “progressive “was a good thing without a clearer
Explanation
Sabine Orlik
Victoria