What have we learned about dealing with a crisis?
Still no integrated emergency plan or rehearsal A year into the anticipated pandemic, what have we learned? Are there lessons to be had for dealing with crisis? The most basic…
Constant controversy swirls around local councils
Our municipal leaders seem to have turned governance into a blood sport that features better drama than anything found on Netflix. Local politics by its nature – there are strong…
Ombudsman complaint filed against Langford about transparency
Municipal watchdog files complaint against Langford, claiming lack of transparency, Times Colonist, Jan. 21, 2021. Grumpy Taxpayer$ has filed a complaint with the B.C. Ombudsperson against Langford over lack of…
When councils misbehave, there are remedies
Province urged to show leadership and bring in a council code of conduct with enforced penalties When a councilor or mayor misbehaves are there remedies for taxpayers short of an…
Langford finally approves council live-streaming
Langford funds council live-streaming – Feb. 22, 2021 Update Langford recently approved a motion to fund and proceed with live-streaming of council meeting. Agenda Item 7 (c) 5 Council approved…
What secrets are Langford hiding?
UPDATE: Langford accused of secrecy after refusing to livestream its meetings, Times Colonist, Dec. 11, 2020. CFAX Interview with Adam Stirling and Grumpy Taxpayer$ Chair John Treleaven, Should Langford livestream…
The provincial throne speech you should hear
We begin by acknowledging that B.C. is a province full of people who are skilled, confident and ready for the road ahead. It’s a place of hope and opportunity. It’s…
Hold the line on personnel costs
How could mayors and councils justify any personnel or council cost increases above inflation? The consumer price index is close to zero. Consider that the unemployment rate in Greater Victoria…
City roads underfunded by $2 million annually
It’s budget time again and council should be reminded that navigating the world and life’s potholes these days is challenging enough without adding bumpy roads. Granted, updating and maintaining roads…