The costs associated with the County’s efforts to defend council’s decision to sanction Couns. Hanson, Kissel and Wright and, now, to attempt to disqualify Wright, certainly seems to be adding up to a hefty bill for taxpayers.
While we are not weighing in on whether the sanctions or the move to disqualify Wright are merited – that’s what the pricey lawyers are paid to argue – we have to wonder if this council is prepared to justify the expenses to constituents when there was no attempt made to officially mediate the situation.
Residents are already questioning the value in spending this much of their money.
Dwayne Snyder took to our Facebook to comment on last week’s editorial, saying, “Instead of wasting our tax payer (sic) money and time on witch hunts and running around calling each other names like a bunch of 3 year olds there should be an election called so the people can decide. This is ridiculous!”
Others are calling out RVC on its perceived dysfunctional culture and questioning its credibility.
There is clearly a need to address the current situation council finds itself in, but is that even possible when both sides have dug in their feet as far as they have?
We certainly hope so. And it does appear – at least, from what we’ve observed at council meetings – some councillors have made attempts to bridge the divide by engaging in apparent friendly interactions with those on either side of the issue.
Still, however the court decides, council will have much to do to mend its fences – within its membership and with the residents it represents.
