A standing room only crowd gathered in the
Legion Hall for the inauguration of our new Council. Mayor Jack de Jong welcomed the elected Councillors and remarked that it had been a strong and passionate campaign. He thanked Colin Haime, Doug Parkhurst, Warren Griffey and Rod Negrave for their service to the community on Council. The importance of relationships with Snaw’Naw’As First Nations, the City of Nanaimo and the Regional District of Nanaimo were acknowledged. Mayor de Jong spoke about challenges and opportunities facing the Council: water, the village core, senior’s housing, sustainable food supply, and reviewing the OCP. Appreciation was expressed to District Staff and the Fire Department for all they do to benefit our community. The community at large was thanked by Jack for providing him with the challenge of serving as mayor. He also thanked his family for their support.
The Aspengrove School Choir then sang a lovely version of ‘O Canada’.
Judge Iverson, a resident of Lantzville, was called upon to take the oaths of office from each Council Member. Jack de Jong presented the judge with a token gift, and apologized for being a little rough on procedures. He added that he would be taking a full day course the next day to help him with these.
The business portion of this meeting was short, enabling the new members to get their feet wet without being overwhelmed. The RDN representative needed to be appointed, and Jack de Jong offered himself for this position. There was some concern about his lack of experience. This vote failed, and Denise Haime nominated Brian Dempsey for the job. Mayor de Jong was provided as the alternate, and this vote passed unanimously. This is only a one-year appointment. This job often goes to the mayor, and it was explained that de Jong might be able to take his turn next year. Another vote determined that Joe Bratkowski would continue to represent the District on the Vancouver Island regional Library Board, with Andrew Mostad selected as alternate. This concluded the business at this first meeting.
A reception followed, with tea, coffee and cookies served along with an opportunity for the public and the Council to interact on an individual basis.
