A change of City of Kelowna representatives on the Regional District Central Okanagan (RDCO) Board surprised at least one councillor.
The city was represented by Councillors Mohini Singh, Ron Cannan, and Gord Lovegrove on the board.
However, they were replaced with Councillors Luke Stack, Maxine DeHart, and Rick Webber after a council strategic planning session on April 29.
“Council, by resolution, appoints six members of council to the regional district board and council may appoint one or more alternates,” a statement from Mayor Tom Dyas reads. “The director appointments…may change…during the council term as they see fit.”
Coun. Singh said the changes caught her by surprise.
“I don’t understand why,” she said. “I’m glad I am still part of the RDCO even as an alternate and I enjoy serving.”
She had to leave the planning session early due to a medical issue and learned of the changes in a phone call from Dyas that evening.
Singh will also have to give up her position as chair of the Sterile Insect Release program as it falls under RDCO authority.
The loss of director appointments also means a loss of $17,000 of income for the trio, who voted against a recent pay hike for council.
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“Any reference, which has recently been reported, that this decision was made based on how council voted on the remuneration package, which was proposed by staff, is simply unfounded,” the mayor said.
Dyas’ statement also said that all councillors should have the opportunity to gain different experiences by serving on various committees.
“By experiencing different committees, council members broaden their perspectives, deepen their understanding of community issues, and enhance their ability to make informed decisions. This rotation fosters a more collaborative and well-rounded council.”
Former councillor and previous RDCO Board chair Gail Given told Capital News while not a common practice, switching out representatives is not unreasonable.
“I know two of the members who have been appointed are experienced regional district members and will bring good value to the board.”
The mayor’s statement also suggested the change of directors should not have been unexpected.
“Council was informed a number of months ago that the committee appointments would be brought forth at the strategic review session on April 29, 2024.”
At the Apr. 25 RDCO Board meeting, chair Loyal Wooldridge announced he would be stepping down as he pursues the provincial NDP nomination for Kelowna Centre.
Capital News has contacted councillors Cannan and Lovegrove for comment but has not yet received a response.
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