Council is concerned that its decision to temporarily pause Advisory Committee meetings in the spring was understood by some members of the community as an indictment of Advisory Committees or a decision to complete a formal investigation into the conduct of specific committees or committee members. That was not Council’s intention.
Council recognizes that North Saanich is fortunate to have highly engaged and dedicated residents who volunteer their time and expertise by serving on Council Advisory Committees and in other capacities. The purposes of the Committees are to consider the matters brought before them and provide independent insights, perspectives, thoughts, and recommendations to assist Council in its deliberations and decision making.
While there was a reference to particular committees in council’s resolution, the primary, purpose of the pause was to permit Council to receive guidance and advice regarding ways of maximizing the benefits derived from Advisory Committees. This included advice regarding:
- improving the terms of reference for Advisory Committees in a manner that clearly sets out the expectations, purposes, and mandates of the Advisory Committees;
- improving the training that is given to Advisory Committee members so that they understand their roles, functions, and obligations; and,
- training for chairs of the Advisory Committees to ensure that the committees operate at maximum effectiveness.
Council has received the requested guidance and looks forward to implementing the recommendations received from staff and to the assistance that the Advisory Committees will provide to Council in the new term.
Media contact
Myles Dolphin
Manager, Communications and Engagement
District of North Saanich
Email: mdolphin@northsaanich.ca