By Lyonel Doherty
Times-Chronicle Staff
A town councillor in Oliver believes it’s “disrespectful” to disband the Food Action Advisory Committee without input from members.
Petra Veintimilla was firm in her defence of the committee on Monday when council approved a motion to rescind the group’s terms of reference.
Corporate Officer Diane Vaykovich said this recommendation came from her office after reviewing the committee’s mandate and what it has accomplished in developing a plan for food security in Oliver. This included an “edible pathways” project and the community Harvest Hut.
Vaykovich noted the committee met five times in 2019 with a normal attendance of one or two members, up to a maximum of four.
She suggested that council thank the members for their contribution.
Councillor Aimee Grice said it would be nice to schedule one more meeting before the group disbanded in order to get its final input.
Veintimilla said she hasn’t missed any of the committee’s meetings, and she doesn’t recall any conversation about disbandment.
Grice said she wouldn’t be voting in favour of the recommendation, noting that committee members should be more involved in the decision.
Veintimilla agreed.
“I think it’s quite disrespectful to go ahead and disband without first having the conversation with them.”
But Councillor Dave Mattes said it’s not disrespectful in any way, shape or form since the committee has achieved its objectives. He noted that council showed leadership in forming the committee, so it should also show leadership in concluding it.
Vaykovich reiterated that very few members attend the meetings since their goals have been achieved.
Veintimilla said she would still be voting against the recommendation.
The remaining councillors voted in favour of it.
Chief Administrative Officer Cathy Cowan said they would set up a final meeting of the committee out of respect for the members.
