Dear editor,
The attendance-of-councillors issue raised by Jon Ambler and passed by six of the seven of the council, is just another in a series of irresponsible decisions by our City council.
The arrogance of Jon Ambler on three occasions in an account of a council meeting is consistent with other cost-related decisions made by the council. Take for example the pay increase for the councillors as a first order of business after the election.
The first arrogant comment by Ambler was, "There are people in this community that know the price of everything and the value of nothing."
No one would dispute the value of some of the functions, however, a responsible council would find a sensible way to disseminate the information and reduce costs. Instead, they become the first City council to the mayor's knowledge, to offer seminars to the whole council. This alone should send up a red flag.
Ambler continues his arrogance with the following quotes, "People will complain." "Let's just accept that."
This shows no concern for the opinions of the taxpayers and suggests he know what's best for all. Maybe he should not vote for giving money, or should I say more money than they asked for, and things we really don't need. Then he could say "people will complain, "Let's just accept that."
That brings me to the third bit of arrogance. He make a motion that all councillors may attend "at the municipality's expense."
Ambler doesn't seem to know who's paying for these events. Maybe he should have used the true phrase, at the taxpayers' expense.
I would not have brought this up had it not been for where he splits hairs by saying, "Independent councillors cannot spend a dime."
In fact, when the council approves a motion or budget, whether he vote in favour or not, he is entitled to be reimbursed as per vote.
I can't wait until the next election. Enough is enough.
Carl Jackson,
Courtenay