The atmosphere at the municipal hall must be one of tension and frayed nerves.
At the council meeting on January 24 Mayor Janet Evans broke precedence and gave councillors and the public a verbal spanking. She said she would not tolerate disrespectful comments from the public to staff or from councillors to staff. What she forgot to add is no tolerance of disrespectful comments from staff to either the public, media or councillors. This rule should apply to everyone. Respect is earned.
She blames losing professional staff because of rude comments. Really? Are they so sensitive that they can’t take criticism? Are they so good at their jobs that they are above criticism or suggestions? If someone, either a public figure or a private citizen isn’t getting answers from those in the know, is that harassment? But bullying and yelling and throwing hissy fits is not acceptable in any arena. It is childish and unprofessional.
Does embarrassment or the perception of wrong-doing precede our right to know what is going on in the hallowed halls?
While we agree that council chambers should be a place of respect, we have also heard disrespectful comments thrown out at the Sooke News Mirror.
It is no easy task being in public office, but no one said it would be a cake walk. People want answers and they want truth and honesty and if they feel they aren’t getting either they will let it be known.
People will let you know what they really think when it is time to put their X on the ballot.