Harrison/Vancouver – The 2023 Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM) convention in Vancouver wrapped up on Friday September 22. There was some contriversy surrounding Harrison delegates.
As new Councilor elect John Allen was sworn in at home, Black Press reported that Mayor Ed Wood commented on his own absence from attending the Vancouver convention.
According to published reports, Wood claimed a gag order and dirty politics were behind the reason for not attending.
Councilors Leo Facio and Michie Vidal claimed that is not the case.
Vidal sent a statement to FVN:
No Councillor issued any “gag order” nor does any Councillor have any authority to do. The Mayor had advised Council that he saw no reason to attend and any meetings with Ministers could be done by staff. It was unfortunate the Mayor chose not to attend as along with Minister Meetings, there are numerous educational sessions, plenaries, resolution voting sessions and the huge advantage of networking with Councils around the province. I attended the RCC (Resort Communities Collaborative) to discuss RMI successes and initiatives today which is usually only attended by Mayors and CAO’s upon invitation. This group advocates with the Ministry of Tourism and is comprised of all Resort Municipalities in BC. It is unfortunate that there is little communication between the Mayor and Councillors.
Earlier in the week, Facio was honoured by UBCM for his long term service in recognition of his commitment to the Village.
