Electoral Area C Comments

by | Feb 15, 2021

These are the written comments made by Electoral Area C residents who participated in Decafnation’s Local Government Performance Review. Comments that breached our journalistic standards have been eliminated. All other comments appear as entered into the online survey platform. Click on each image to enlarge the view.

Area C Comments on CVRD

⇒ More active effort to complete the Onespot Trail from Cessford Rd to Condensory Bridge required. Huge effort required to widen road from Cessford Rd to Condensory Bridge for walkers, cyclists &school children and horses.

⇒ Some are doing a great job others need to be voted out

⇒ Rural directors have a hard time at it as they are basically newbies when elected and have a lot to get up to speed on including municipal law. Not at all the situation the bulk of municipal directors find themselves in due to their prior experience gained in municipal councils.

⇒ Stick to the RGS– Don’t cave into the would-be developers

⇒ The response on the pandemic for business and tourism has been terrible. The failure to hold CVED’s accountable in the past, and now to hold them to the terms of the existing MOU is negligent, as it was breached from the start. Permitting CVED’s to then hand off a two year contract for Tourism Marketing and Visitor services, when the Agreement/MOU states that “the obligations must not be transferred or assigned by the society without prior written consent of the CVRD” is obscene for a six-figure contract.

⇒ Only area A is a keeper. The farmer and the building supply salesman can hopefully be replaced.

⇒ I’d like to see directors be more engaged with discussions around composting and solid waste disposal issues – at the moment, about the proposal before MOE that would permit deposits of waste materials in the Hamm Road Rd. area. Just because it’s a “provincial” issue doesn’t mean they can’t take a more assertive role in discussing options – even take a stand against it.

⇒ I am quite happy about the new group that has been formed to look out for the purchase/acquisition of new parkland. Although difficult, being proactive rather than reactive is much more effective in the long run. So important to protect our green space before it’s all gone…maybe this is reactive? I.e. Stotan Falls? The wildlife corridors need to be protected.

⇒ On the whole, I am pleased with how the CVRD has handled things this past term. I’m especially happy that they are putting CVEDS through their paces and bringing them to task for the years of secretive operations and inadequate service to the area as a whole.

⇒ I think that personal relationships seem to trump community greater good when it comes to decision making for Director Edwin Grieve. Very satisfied with Daniel Arbour and Arzeema Hamir.

Edwin Grieve

⇒ Not pleased with his views on development. Stotan Falls area should not in any way be developed.

⇒ About the only thing positive since being elected is that Mainroad is doing a much better job with road maintenance.

⇒ Appears to be a puppet for the ‘old boys’ (CVEDS)

⇒ Edwin has been between a rock and a hard place for a long time, what with 3L being in his grill for so long. Director Grieve seems to be a conciliator personality type and is not his own best advocate. I think that many times what he does in not actually understood by the electorate and the press. As the most experience of the 3 rural directors he is the most cautious. We have our differences. Using the fairgrounds for an ‘Ag Complex’ for example is a non-starter for me. Many have no cognizance of the actual amount of work put in by these directors for the people they represent. Much of their hard work is stymied by regional and municipal bureaucratic undermining. Rural directors within Regional Districts do not have much power as opposed to Municipal directors and the municipalities that get to vote twice – once in the municipal process and then a second time at the RD.

⇒ Don’t give in to the 3L bandits Edwin…. and where is the wired hi-speed internet you promised to promote for those of us outside of Courtenay?

⇒ Has actively worked to prevent any accountability for CVEDs. Don’t know of any actions he may have done to serve his district, but is happy to help developers. (provided they are purely for profit – guessing he would block any affordable housing initiatives)

⇒ He is useless. Retire next election.

⇒ Grieve appears to support the visions of CVEDS and the Exhibition Grounds Committee that are not in keeping with more sustainable, grassroots, community-based values. BIG is not necessarily beautiful. Input from local growers and the community at large should be valued and respected, not minimized or criticized. Time for him to join many of the other “old boys club” members and step aside.

⇒ Don’t know enough to rate Edwin

⇒ I’m not happy that Edwin supported the old school CVEDS behaviour. Other than that I think he’s been okay.

 

Area C issues

⇒ These wet spells have highlighted once again that our local septics are mostly collapsed now. Last survey was done just prior to the last sewer referendum and showed a growing trend of sewage issues.

⇒ As many cannot afford an increase in taxes due to covid related unemployment, plan on a budget that keeps taxes status quo. Need to continue NECESSARY services and leaves the wants for another time.

⇒ The bureaucracy at the RD is, frankly speaking, a 5th column with many fiefdoms totally without a grounding in the sensibilities of the people who live in the rural areas and the directors elected to serve those electors. The rural areas of the RD have a very diverse population from the import Martini Farmers at one end of the spectrum to the subsistence pensioners living in poverty at the other. Regulation these days seems to be written by people with good-paying jobs with dental plans which I have no problem with but their sensitivities are definitely skewed towards curbing any scent of, err how shall I say it, non-CSA approved habitation. The regulation industry is on a rampage that is forcing all but the most rich off the landscape as recent zoning bylaw amendments and ever ratcheting up building code regulation demonstrate. Employees with benefits and steady paychecks certainly have their biases when it comes to regulating lower-income people who have to scratch and peck to stay afloat. Many times regulation is written to curb the excesses of the Martini Farmers who have the money to comply but greatly impact the poor among us who may own property or who are forced to ‘camp out’ in less than the perfect situations that planners, inspectors and bylaw enforcement officers regulate. There is a disconnect there that needs to be addressed. Since the leaky condo situation federal, Provincial and municipal/RD building code over-regulation coupled with Provincial Electrical Regulation overreach have exacerbated these situations to the realm of ridiculously and the RD building inspectors and enforcement personnel pretty well have cart blanch to do as they please leaving builders and occupiers very little recourse.
Support to seniors. Careful watching the new land developments—Keep an eye on Union Bay– Don’t trade off our shellfish industry for housing.

⇒ Thanks for asking

⇒ We need an industrial park. Get it zoned.

⇒ You have to pay to play. Nothing is for free. It takes private business to support the wants of the many.

⇒ I appreciate being able to access minutes, agendas of upcoming meetings, staff reports and other information that’s available online, as well as viewing “live” or taped meetings of various committees.

⇒ Let’s get our human-powered transportation completed….we also need unbroken links…the One Spot is an amazing resource and is so close to being complete.

⇒ All of these things are important, but I’ve selected the items that I think should be up higher on the list of priorities.

⇒ All the issues above are important but I feel some are a stretch for municipal government. It’s ridiculous that such a small centre as the Comox Valley has 4? governing bodies. If a large centre like Toronto can do it certainly we could too. The 4 should amalgamate, revise the OCP to designate specific growth areas/strategies and start sending a clear unified message to developers. We have everything here to be an outdoor/tourism Mecca. This disjointed/patchwork/inconsistent approach we have now is unfortunate. If we amalgamated, skimmed the fat we could attract a better quality of personnel at all levels but specifically the planning, building and engineering departments.

Electoral Area B Comments

by | Feb 15, 2021

These are the written comments made by Electoral Area B residents who participated in Decafnation’s Local Government Performance Review. Comments that breached our journalistic standards have been eliminated. All other comments appear as entered into the online survey platform. Click on each image to enlarge the view.

Arzeena Hamir

⇒ I like Arzeena because she asks the tough questions other directors are sometimes hesitant to ask.

⇒ Arzeena has been very supportive of our fight with the SEwage Commission to rid our neighbourhood of the stink from the CVWPCC.

⇒ She is excellent. I’ll vote for her again. We can’t do better.

⇒ Arzeena takes the time to become informed about issues. I value her knowledge and input

⇒ I have HUGE respect for Arzeena. She exudes such integrity, respect and knowledge. Honestly don’t know how she does it while running an organic farm, raising kids etc. It was an honour to help with her campaign.

⇒ Needs to be in the news more, and provide more newsletters to keep us informed

⇒ Don’t know what’s going on at the Regional District.

⇒ Arzeena always responds to concerns and takes action.

⇒ I like her position on 3L She is on the right track with most things. I am glad she is looking after the farming community.

⇒ Have heard or read nothing from her.

⇒ I like her. She cares about the environment and seems approachable and honest, unlike many politicians.

⇒ She seems to use a common-sense approach.

⇒ Arzeena is working hard to bring in new and progressive governing.

⇒ Have been very impressed with Director Hamir in every way. Particularly appreciated her support of Curtis Road residents in our difficulties with the Sewage Treatment plant.

⇒ Arzeena Hamir is an outstanding director. I highly respect her for her willingness to speak up and be vocal about issues she feels strongly about. She communicates professionally and thoroughly researches issues she’s addressing. She has been unafraid to speak publicly about CVEDS, and other challenges the CVRD is facing.

⇒ She is doing an excellent job. Smart, informed, good listener, principled, won’t be bullied by the old boys.

⇒ There is no outreach to Area B residents that I am aware of. It would be useful to have the opportunity to sign up for updates on issues that our director is involved with.

⇒ Doesn’t even answer or return messages.

⇒ Ms. Hamir is a positive force for thoughtful & considered decision-making.

⇒ Don’t hear much from her.

⇒ Invisible

Area B Comments on CVRD

⇒ I want to board to totally transform the economic development function. I do not want the board to include a misnamed agriplex on the exhibition grounds.

⇒ I think that Arzeena is very intelligent, committed and ethical.

⇒ I think compared to many decades previously we have a very progressive CVRD board of directors.

⇒ Do not take interest in anything outside of their special interests

⇒ In terms of big projects, I think the new water filtration plant has been mostly handled well, the emergency notification system works for me, and I sincerely hope that we will get garbage pick up in the future – I am glad to see that this project is at least ongoing. The RD also supports some affordable housing initiatives. As to other critical issues, many are outside jurisdictions not local governments… eg health, welfare rates etc

⇒ We really don’t get much information on what happens. Some more outreach to residents would be appreciated.

⇒ Happy with the exception of how the Area C Director has voted on 3L as he is pro 3L, I am NOT. Re unified parks program…Edwin Grieve did raise this issue which is good. Otherwise, I like most of what the Directors are doing.

⇒ There is little contact or information passed to the residents

⇒ Not sure who to blame but we are losing land to development. No trails along Lazo Rd from Torrence to Balmoral where many people walk. They have sold a lot of water access pathways in our area.

⇒ Arzeena is an amazing leader and not a bit afraid to make tough decisions nor is she afraid to stand steady in her leadership and opinions.

⇒ Would appreciate more communication with constituents regarding issues and projects.

⇒ The CVRD could have been doing a better job overseeing CVEDS rather than leaving it to this point. I’m also not overly impressed with their COVID response.

⇒ The board structure creates its own historical problems.

⇒ Seem to have a focus on small issues versus bigger picture and allow other jurisdictions to treat Electoral Areas as a whipping post

⇒ Directors appear to make decisions based on evidence & consultation. Good communication.

⇒ We live in a so-called desirable area without any services (water, sewer) at all. Our taxes are nearly $4,000 a year before grants. Our road is a washboard of sunken areas, potholes, broken down edges and only a spattering of rough patchwork has been done over the past decade. We get the runaround when we call to complain, are told to call the contractor who says it’s the responsibility of the Ministry of Highways. In other words, nothing gets done.

⇒ Very low key. Administration leads

Area B Issues

⇒ These are all critical issues. child care, less so for the RD that other local governments as the RD is an older community

⇒ We need to preserve the green areas in Area B. We also need to stand up to Comox Council and Courtenay council. They use our area B to dispose of sewerage, while giving us no say in the matter.

⇒ Non of the above. The best service to the people would be to continue the self-lockdown. Don’t do anything, so you won’t do any more damage.

⇒ Bike and walking allowances should be included in transport planning. Bike lanes should be much wider from Lazo Road to the airport

⇒ Any new development should have mandatory solar panels? Mandatory charging stations? Why not get going in the right direction.

⇒ Not sure if they can but stop letting the Town of Comox from taking CVRD land, and from paving it and developing it. Cutting down beautiful forests and animal habitats. Make room for nature. Stop any use or sale of poisons especially rat poison that kill our birds of prey.

⇒ I would like to see an RD Parks function

⇒ Active Transportation protecting Stotan falls area and Bevan trail and watershed area

⇒ Most important issues for me are related to addressing climate change, creating a better infrastructure to support cycling, and addressing food insecurity.

⇒ I am completely opposed to a food hub. I do not believe this appropriately or adequately addresses food security. This does not serve to address food sovereignty. This proposal serves a non-profit seeking more control and funding of local food when de-centralizing food systems is the only path to actually addressing food security. Small scale farms are currently thriving. The only major change I would like to see is another small abattoir so that there isn’t a monopoly on small scale meat processing. I would love to see a ban of glyphosate and for the RD and municipalities to stop allowing it because it is used for knotweed. The school district needs to address the bullying, violence, homophobic and racist behaviour happening in and around schools. And finally but most importantly, we could continue to strengthen our relationship with K’omoks First Nation.

⇒ Overarching priority should be relations with K’omoks First Nation and reconciliation as per UNDRIP and the TRC’s Calls to Action. This priority should be the lens through which all other issues are addressed.

⇒ Stand up for how the Electoral areas are used and abused by Town of Comox and City of Courtenay

⇒ How can I narrow the list down to the highest priorities? Each of these are priorities that impact residents valley-wide.

⇒ Need the CVRD to lead initiatives for a common growth strategy for the entire Comox Vally, with Courtenay,Comox, Cumberland, KFN

Comox respondents’ Comments

by | Feb 11, 2021

These are the written comments made by Comox residents who participated in Decafnation’s Local Government Performance Review. Comments that breached our journalistic standards, such as ad hominem attacks, have been eliminated. All other comments appear as entered into the online survey platform. Click on each image to view that councillor’s satisfaction rating.

Comox Town Council

⇒ Pepole are doing their best under the circumstances

⇒ I am frustrated that the council is not taking climate change seriously and how it will affect our town. That and the way they’ve handled Mack Laing and the development of the marina area.

⇒ They rolled up their sleeves, and got to work. They made a long overdue decision to show Richard Kanigan the door. The new CAO is a breath of fresh air. They are progressive and logical in their governance. Bravo!

⇒ Comox Town Council has continued to demonstrate a backward position towards conservation of municipal nature parks (e.g. Mack Lang Park) and an uncooperative approach towards a regional park management plan.

⇒ The council has made it clear that the priority of their mandate is to ensure that they are paid very well for having been elected.

⇒ They are too secretive about the budget and give no details about how they’re spending tax dollars, or how they are arriving at these decisions.

⇒ Council’s position on Shakesides and the Mack Laing property has been appalling.

⇒ 1) The consistency of garbage pickup has fallen since Arndt arrived. 2) Cycling is still a hazardous adventure, Noel, Lazo etc etc 3) No publicly available info on likely sea level rise in Comox, I was told to ask a realtor 4) inability to play nicely with our neighbours in Cumberland and Courtenay 5) no linkage of essential services , hospital beds for example, to palms for further development. 6) Poor air quality in winter. 7) people can still swim in our drinking water and log to close

⇒ The Council’s failure to honour the OCP, institute a Heritage Registry and legislation to protect local heritage sites and structures, insist on the inclusion of green space and adequate parking for new commercial and multi residential development, foster the protection of existing green spaces and parks as well as having a plan to acquire additional green space areas and especially having no apparent concept of climate change and the urgency of an adaptive plan for the fast arriving future have left me very dissatisfied this this councils performance.

⇒ Not enough has been done to address climate change, poor air quality in the winter months.

⇒ Election promises have been broken, respect for previous OCP has been lacking in follow through, lack of a heritage registry and building permits without proper parking allocations are issues. Using OCP designated parkland space to sell for a building site and not honouring an almost 40 year old trust agreement with Mack Laing are also issues for me. I could go on

⇒ I feel like the council is more of a boys club who would never stand up to the leader. I do not trust them.

⇒ Too little attention to taxpayer’s needs. Too much attention to individual council members “agendas”. It is a fact those least competent to govern are those most attracted to such offices.

⇒ Tough job, especially following the former Mayor and Town Administrator. Think the new council has terrific new people doing a hard job, and having to learn an awful lot on the job!

⇒ Local improvements for schools (e.g. Brooklyn Crosswalk) are very much appreciated. Happy with backyard chickens and food security progressive policies. The traffic calming steps in local neighborhoods are also appreciated.

⇒ They ignore the needs of youth and families in Comox. Apart from Marina Park and school playgrounds, there is nothing. We need a skate park and some spaces for 7-12 yro. And stop fighting over Shakesides and honour the original contract as intended by Mack Laing!!

⇒ I appreciate that the Comox Council has not embraced the panic of Covid and maintained an even keel thus far.

⇒ A Lot of things feel very progressive which is good, and on the other hand sometimes it feels like Comox is intentionally at odds with other municipalities and I wonder if that is necessary.

⇒ First thing they did was give themselves a raise. Garbage pickup is erratic and now less days per year pick up.

⇒ Comprising a majority of first time councillors, the group, I thought would bring a fresh perspective. I am afraid that in spite of moving from ‘an old boys network’ style of government, we have, instead, moved to one that gets mired in the minutia being on the side of political correctness.

⇒ I would like to see them put more work into prioritizing supporting local businesses and contributing to an affordable homeownership strategy

⇒ Lack of action taken, schedule change to garbage poorly handled

⇒ Mostly pretty good

⇒ There seems to be little effort to engage the community in preparing for the consequences of global warming.

⇒ They seem unfocused and leaderless. They seem to follow without thinking for themselves.

⇒ After spending the last couple of hours reviewing the minutes of the Town of Comox Council meetings I am left with the impression that the people who make the decisions and run the Town are Jordan Wall, Marvin Kamenz and Clive Freundlich. The mayor and council are essentially trained seals that nod in unison to the directions they are given by senior staff. 99% of all motions are carried without opposition. The role of the mayor and council members is primarily public relations. They justify their salaries by attending meetings hosted by special interest groups seeking council support and public money for their organizations. The Town of Comox has approved three large developments (695 Aspen Road, 2310 Guthrie, and 2309 McDonald road) without ensuring adequate recreational park space for residents. This has placed enormous strain on existing park space in the Comox Valley. The only economic development that the Town of Comox has supported is the mall renovation (Dollar Store) along with 3 pubs and 2 cannabis stores. While increasing taxes, they have cut back services (e.g., waste and recycling pick up to once every two weeks.) Their major contribution to the climate emergency and the environment was to ban plastic bags, build a couple of electric vehicle charging stations and approve the BC step code.

⇒ This Council is unable to think outside of the box that it built for itself. Because a number of the councilors are new to their positions, they seem unwilling to act or oppose the direction of the Council set by those who have past experience.

⇒ Their handling of the redevelopment planning for 1652 Balmoral was shockingly poor. I, along with almost all of the other neighbors provided similar feedback (not NIMBY, but lots of reasonable input provided on the circumvention of the OCP as well as design out of alignment, all ignored in the name of speed)

Ken Grant

⇒ He’s not a team player and not transparent-a detriment to the council

⇒ The dinosaur in the room. Only in office for the paycheque.

⇒ Ken Grant is not much better than Russ Arnott in his paternalistic governance approach to the municipal electorate.

⇒ Councillor Ken Grant has done absolutely nothing to forward the actual needs of the taxpayers of the Town Of Comox. They after all only pay the council wages, (and bonuses, and expenses and…)

⇒ Voted for demolition of Shakesides and to continue designing a viewing platform to replace naturalist Mack Laing’s heritage home, rejecting any other proposals for the property,

⇒ Too dismissive of the female voices on Council.

⇒ Ken Grant’s jokes and comments are disrespectful. He is part of the “Old Boy’s Network “ of the last Council. He seems opposed to any substantial changes to Council’s past performance

⇒ Needs improvement. More governing less politicking.

⇒ Old guard

⇒ Mr. Grant, whose experience on council is welcome. He unfortunately also brings, I believe, baggage from the previous ‘old boys’ style of governance in the valley. I would vote for him again

⇒ It’s possible he’s been around too long

⇒ Ken Grant seems to represent the White male status quo.

⇒ Seems to parrot whatever Art Meyers feeds him.

⇒ Ken Grant just managed to get enough votes to be elected at the last election. His suggestion to increase the hotel tax from 2% to 3% in response to a request for additional funding for the homeless speaks volumes about Ken Grant’s character and abilities. Sadly, his friend and fellow incumbent, Russ Arnott, ensures that Ken Grant is the council member appointed to represent Comox at the CVRD.

 

Alex Bissinger

⇒ A breath of fresh air. She is articulate and willing to listen. Her views on climate change and sustainability as well as her ideas on future capital projects are well informed with an eye to the future.

⇒ The smartest person in the room. Fearless and always happy to keep people accountable. Top shelf councillor.

⇒ I had high hopes for Alex Bissinger as a progressive new voice on town council, but have been somewhat disappointed. She has backed off from pressing for real change, such as resolving the Mack Lang nature park trust, and bringing the municipal engineering department into progressive environmentally responsible professional management.

⇒ Councillor Alex Bissinger has done absolutely nothing to forward the actual needs of the taxpayers of the Town Of Comox. They after all only pay the council wages, (and bonuses, and expenses and…)

⇒ Cannot say I’m impressed, but she hasn’t done anything terrible either. A bit disappointing for someone of her intellectual ability.

⇒ Voted to continue designing a viewing platform to replace naturalist Mack Laing’s heritage home, rejecting any other proposals for the property,

⇒ Councillor Bissinger has made a real effort to initiate some progressive and meaningful initiatives. Her strong awareness of the seriousness of climate change is appreciated as was her initial attempt to resolve the councils previous inability to honour it’s legal responsibility to uphold the terms of the Mack Laing trust. It’s disappointing and disquieting to see the “cone of silence” descend on her initial support for addressing this issue.

⇒ Bright and articulate woman who seeks innovative ways of addressing problems. It would be great if her voice was not stifled by males on Council.

⇒ Alex has brought several issues and motions to Council to promote meaningful changes or dialogue. She often misses the support she needs and can be overwhelmed by the “status quo” supporters to change her wording, table motions, etc. Lots of potential for meaningful changes

⇒ Needs improvement. More governing less politicking.

⇒ Alex is a true member of the community. She does this because she cares about Comox and the people that live here.

⇒ Ms. Bissinger, whom I thought would bring youth and pragmatism (an engineer), has, I think, not been able to bridge the gap between idealism and realism. Ms. Bissenger and Comox, may benefit from her being on council for another term.

⇒ Needs to do more to leave her mark.

Patrick McKenna

⇒ Interesting ideas about arts and culture and performing spaces

⇒ Pat McKenna has maintained a low profile and generally goes with the flow.

⇒ Councillor Pat McKenna, though sometimes a lone voice, has occasionally spoken up to question council decisions.

⇒ He has done nothing of note.

⇒ It’s hard to tell what councillor McKenna actually stands for.

⇒ A team player who has great communication skills and takes the time to analyze the issue at hand.

⇒ I’m convinced Pat could help Council expand possibilities for our Community. He speaks up well for issues he’s concerned about. Unfortunately he often supports the status quo team as well.

⇒ Mr. McKenna, in my view, was the star on Comox Council. I believe that he showed measured independence and moderation. I witnessed his thoughtful and mature questioning and his attention to the job at hand. I would definitely vote for him again and support his effort to be our mayor if he so chooses.

⇒ I love that Pat brings knowledge of housing and homelessness issues to Comox Council.

⇒ I think the difference between what he said while running and how he has voted are significantly different.

⇒ Pat is a nice guy. But that’s about it.

⇒ I have been disappointed by McKenna’s “let’s-not-rock-the-boat” attitude. I wonder if, somehow, his leadership of a local non-profit makes him overly cautious about standing up with the more progressive arm of Council.

⇒ Only councilor that I’ve dealt with first hand who seemed to ready to make the hard decisions and do the work that I would expect from elected officials

Mayor Russ Arnott

⇒ His position on climate change, sustainability and developing marina lands are lacking. And his stand on Mack Laing.

⇒ He is a down to earth, approachable leader. He stood up for his Public Works staff when an awful fabricated story broke about interactions with the female public. His love for Comox is obvious….he cares about people.

⇒ Russ Arnott continues to display a reactionary governance approach to municipal services delivery, male chauvinism towards female councilors, and an adversarial approach towards citizen activists and non-profit advisory groups.

⇒ Mayor Arnott is careful to ensure that he makes absolutely no decision that would bring any sort of controversy. He will not make a decision that would actually take any kind of stand for anything.

⇒ He is merely parroting the previous administration and has not seemed to do much of anything. He has not been a positive factor in solving a very large – and legally expensive – outstanding issue – namely the Shakesides Trust. There is too much secrecy around this,

⇒ Failed to consult with KFN re: demolition of Shakesides.

⇒ Mayor Arnott’s disruptive and coercive interjections during council meetings to promote his own agenda is unacceptable.

⇒ He seems to have the greatest power in Council rather than sharing it with his Councillors.

⇒ The mayor’s behaviour in council meetings has been interruptive and non respectful to public speakers and his newer council members. He has not attempted to follow OCP guidelines. Though he campaigned on a community ocean walkway, he allowed property to sell that was designated park space and reassured the new buyer that the public walkway space adjacent to his land and Port Augusta Creek would not ever happen. He is a former member of council who continues to block resolution of a 40-year-old Trust that could have created a gem for Comox such as Campbell River has achieved with both the Sybil Andrews House and the Haig Brown house and property. He continues to block Heritage Registry for Comox, at a great loss for the community.

⇒ I have had 2 dealings with Arnott and found him pompous, arrogant and dismissive.

⇒ Needs improvement. More governing less politicking.

⇒ Believe Russ is doing a decent job, it is a hard job and he has had to try and clean up some of the mess left by the former Mayor and Adm.

⇒ Old guard

⇒ Russ does not hesitate to seek advice and input from constituents on major matters.

⇒ Does he listen to council members?

⇒ Mr. Arnot brings a steady and firm presence to the group. I hope that he can remain so. I would vote for him again.

⇒ Nothing stands out positive or negative.

⇒ He seemed to be bullying the young(er) women on Council at one point.

⇒ Seems woefully under qualified to lead.

⇒ Arnott is typical of a small-town, glad-handing, baby-kissing, superficial, vacuous politician. He has no vision for the future of this community and no idea how to deal with the enormous future challenges facing the community including economic development, affordable housing and climate change adaptation. After approving a 14% raise for himself in 2018 he is now seeking a further increase. In my opinion he isn’t worth the salary he is already receiving. The simple truth is his absence from council would have no impact whatsoever except to save the community more than $50,000.

⇒ While some experience on Council is good (see my comments to previous question), the lack of creative thinking by this mayor is beyond the pale. It’s all about the economy and growing the tax base, which will see all the local municipalities behind the curve as our climate and the pandemic (both related to each other) set the stage in the future.

Maureen Swift

⇒ Not a team player. Incapable of making her own decisions.

⇒ Needs to learn from the other women on council and get progressive.

⇒ Maureen Swift represents the elitist lobby of entitlement of the wealthy in Comox, where housing development, parks management, and municipal services delivery are there to serve the well-off establishment of Comox.

⇒ Councillor Maureen Swift has done absolutely nothing to forward the actual needs of the taxpayers of the Town Of Comox. They after all only pay the council wages, (and bonuses, and expenses and…)

⇒ Not a positive influence on any issue of importance, and often very negative about what should be of benefit to the town – growing attractions that will encourage tourism.

⇒ Voted for demolition of Shakesides

⇒ Seems to be committed to maintaining the status quo of the previous councils culture and lack of vision.

⇒ Focusing on an off leash dog park is not a top priority yet this issue still hasn’t been resolved after 2 years.

⇒ Maureen Swift is also past Counsellor with an apparent agenda to preserve the status quo without substantial changes. Many missed opportunities to be a more progressive council.

⇒ Needs improvement. More governing less politicking.

⇒ Old guard

⇒ Ms. Swift brings experience and a woman, who has managed to survive in the former, less diversified governance in the valley. I likely would vote for her again.

⇒ She seems to “go with the flow.”

⇒ Maureen Swift has been a councillor for long enough. No doubt she is an active member of the Comox community and takes her role as councillor seriously. However, the time has come for Maureen to pass the baton to someone with fresh ideas.

Nicole Minions

⇒ So so. She doesn’t stand out. Her views on amalgamation and air quality are limited. She tends to follow the middle road.

⇒ Good community person. Needs a dash of Bissinger’s fearlessness.

⇒ Nicole tries to improve municipal governance but has been overwhelmed and bullied by the municipal council old guard and its parochial administration.

⇒ Councillor Nicole Minions has done absolutely nothing to forward the actual needs of the taxpayers of the Town Of Comox. They after all only pay the council wages,(and bonuses, and expenses and…)

⇒ Again, does not speak out and seems to have very little opinion about anything.

⇒ Voted against designing a viewing platform to replace naturalist Mack Laing’s heritage home, was in favour of exploring other options

⇒ Councillor Minions is a welcome addition to this council. She has attempted to initiate some progressive ideas to the council despite the older members of the council’s entrenched resistance to considering new ideas. It’s disappointing that her initial support for a meaningful attempt to resolve the town’s situation in regards to the Mack Laing Trust has been silenced.

⇒ Collaborative with others and frequently seen trying to understand the issues at hand.

⇒ Nicole has a clear voice for advocating principles or ideas. She seems also the most responsive member to expressed concerns from locals. Good at dialogue.

⇒ Needs improvement. More governing less politicking.

⇒ Ms. Minion, another rookie on Council for whom I voted also disappointed me. Perhaps as a young working mother, the workload may have been too much. If Ms. Minion chooses to run again, I would vote for her in the hopes that on a more enlightened and experienced council, she would be able to bring her voice to the table.

⇒ I was at a Town Council meeting where she said electric vehicles and charging stations were a passion of hers. That was reassuring as it suggested to me that she takes global warming seriously.

⇒ I had higher hopes for her and she hasn’t seemed to gain her legs.

⇒ Of all of the current councillors, Nicole Minions is probably the most logical choice for the replacement (hopefully) of Russ Arnott at the next election. She is smart, has a business background and has been involved as a community volunteer. Even early in her first term, Nicole showed leadership by championing the disposable plastic bag issue. Her financial background gives her a solid grasp of Town finances. It is unfortunate that she hasn’t spoken up more about some of the questionable expenditures being made by the Town.

⇒ The same qualities mentioned above regarding Bissinger can be applied to Minions, without the science and data background. She stands up to the trio of “experienced’ councilors, but is hamstrung by her newness to the position. Still, she is doing the best she can, I think, and is showing signs, like Bissinger, of standing up and being counted as a progressive and a person concerned about the climate and pandemic.

Stephanie McGowan

⇒ Don’t have a clear picture. Her position on tax increases was interesting- partnering up with other levels of gov’t to save dollars and her other responses re transparency( town hall meetings) and future projects were general. She supported Comox signing on to the BC Climate Action Charter.

⇒ She has also tried for the best but is usually bullied into submission.

⇒ Councillor Stephanie McGowan, though sometimes a lone voice, has occasionally spoken up to question council decisions…

⇒ She at least tries to address concerns of Comox citizens, but is often overridden by the others, who it seems are only interested in making as few waves as possible.

⇒ Voted against designing a viewing platform to replace naturalist Mack Laing’s heritage home, was in favour of exploring other options

⇒ Councillor McGowan has been a welcome addition to the council. Hopefully she will be successful in helping the town create a Heritage Registry and some protective bylaws to protect the town’s heritage properties and structures. Her initial support for a meaningful effort to resolve the Towns current impasse in regard to the Mack Laing Trust was appreciated. Hopefully the ember of that vision still remains.

⇒ Bringing forth the issue of homelessness and how it exists in Comox too.

⇒ Stephanie has great intentions in my opinion but again , can be overwhelmed by the blocking of change from the senior more experienced members of council. Good potential for future changes I think. She keeps bringing up the need for a heritage registry- yay and has a broader perspective of community members.

⇒ Needs improvement. More governing less politicking.

⇒ She’s engaged in important issues

⇒ I thought that Ms. McGowan, in spite of me not voting for her, was a disappointment and not good material for Comox Council. Too mired in idealistic beliefs for the level of responsibility. I would not vote for her.

⇒ I don’t have a sense of her politics.

⇒ Stephanie is best described as the “heart” of Comox Council. She cares about the “average Joe or Josephine”. She also cares about Comox history and our relationship to the K’omoks First Nation. Like the other novice councillors, Stephanie’s voice has been drowned out by the three former incumbents. She is not one to rock the boat and tends to conform to the direction being taken by the more dominant councillors.

Courtenay respondents’ comments

by | Feb 11, 2021

These are the written comments made by Courtenay residents who participated in Decafnation’s Local Government Performance Review. Comments that breached our journalistic standards, such as ad hominem attacks, have been eliminated. All other comments appear as entered into the online survey platform. Click each image to view that councillor’s satisfaction rating.

COURTENAY CITY COUNCIL

⇒ Some good initiatives and some lame ones.

⇒ I’d love to see them put more resources behind city planning specifically towards living spaces for young people, tourism and cultural tourism. We are turning into a generic-looking place!

⇒ Too much interest in providing cyclists with anything they want, there should be more interests paid to motorists and pedestrians. e.g. we need another bridge for motorists.

⇒ Main issue for me is the number of condo/apartment/senior living accommodation buildings that received planning approval, have been built with scant consideration to the lack of parking space to accommodate all the owners/renters/occupants and workers who use these places. Good example, I live on 31st Street, now fully built out, Crystal Shores 70 + condos, Harbour View 27 homes, both these stratas ensured owners parked on their own properties. Along comes Azalea Court, 34 rental units, supposedly 50 parking spots but the garbage compound takes up some space and visitors supposedly have 8 spots, the 34 apartments are home to couples and sometimes larger groups of people who share accommodation to be able to afford the high rents. There is never enough parking so 31st street has become a parking lot, day and night, used by all the good citizens who come to the area to walk the Airpark/river walkway and all the overflow cars from Azalea Court. All the No Parking areas and two fire hydrant areas are constantly violated. Appeals to By-Law enforcement are met with disinterest, besides the enforcement officer works 8 – 4pm four days a week, fat chance of getting violators ticketed, or heaven forbid, towed, when they block the fire hydrants. I shudder to think of what will happen when the fire department has to provide services for fire or earthquake disaster. Now let’s move on to the traffic density where Mansfield Drive joins Cliffe Ave at the northern end. Density of housing along Mansfield is already high, now add into the mix the new construction planned for the WhistleStop, four floors of condos. Move on to the trailer park on Mansfield that has been sold and will be the next target for development. It is already difficult for cars to exit on to Cliffe now but consider the plight of pedestrians. They have to walk south to 26th Street or north to 21st street to be able to cross from the east side of Cliffe where most of the condos/homes are to get to the services that are on the west side of Cliffe. Playing chicken to try and cross Cliffe is out of the question except for those who do not fear for their lives, yet I have seen numerous individuals just trying to do that very thing. Will the good city of Courtenay install a pedestrian crosswalk at Mansfield (north end) and Cliffe? Is it even in their long term planning? Oh, no, yet we can have bike lanes, ornamentation and foolishness at great cost on 5th street! The planners and councillors who support this short sightedness have their collective heads up their backsides.

⇒ Their decisions are made based on recommendations from Staff, probably because of their lack of knowledge, but it allows them not to take responsibility for what is done; a perfect example is the conveyance pipeline, thas it is a disaster both economically and environmentally. Who is making the decision to do it? the CVRD

⇒ On the whole I get a sense there is dialogue on issues and its obvious compromises are required to get decisions. I am more impressed with some council members than others, of course.

⇒ It’s a positive there is no appearance of internal factions wasting time.

⇒ A fiscally responsible council that was the first to enact an asset management bylaw, has worked hard on First Nation relationships with K’omoks, has worked to get an organics program for the entire Comox Valley and has supported social and environmental goals such as housing and daycare.

⇒ Like to see more on making the downtown vibrant

⇒ They work well as a team and have some refreshingly progressive viewpoints.

⇒ Seniors in the area I live in need crosswalks and traffic slowdown and our area needs crosswalks to get across Back Road. Accidents are increasing at the corner of back road and Ryan. Even though we pay a lot of taxes also it seems we don’t get crosswalks and other traffic problems solved. This is also going to get worse with the city cramming more high density low income housing in an area that has a lot of vulnerable seniors living in it. Poor city planning seems to be this City’s worst forte for a while now. Hopefully I can sell my property before it becomes the hood.

⇒ Current council seems more progressive and they have been making good decisions

⇒ Never hear from thereabout what they are doing, what issues lie ahead or how priorities are developed. Never hear from the mayor.

⇒ I like the new people elected in 2018. I think they make a huge positive contribution in Courtenay.

⇒ I am relieved the council was not taken in by 3L development, and also that it supports the bike/pedestrian bridge to 6th St. I do wish the council would consider more green space for every new development. Everyone needs a small area of greenery, preferably a few trees and flowering bushes, a bench or two, whether for a lunch break or just to rejuvenate.

⇒ Not much seems to have happened of significance.

⇒ seem to be dialed in, and addressing the important items.

⇒ the Council seems mostly invisible

⇒ Affordable housing is improving. I am not sure some of the climate change gestures like eliminating plastic are the best things to be working on. Better cycling infrastructure would probably do as much.

⇒ I feel the terrible traffic mess on the top end of 5th St. was a disaster – accidents waiting to happen! I’m ALWAYS relieved when I get past that TIGHT roadway. SO many times I’ve been held up by bicyclists STILL using the roadway – big trucks trying to get into spaces – people just TRYING to open their car doors!!!

⇒ Much better than previous Mayor & Councillors. They listen to their constituents & they’ve made progress on affordable housing.

⇒ Need to have more accountability over their CAO and senior staff. Need to lead culture change from the old school ideologies.

⇒ I think they mean well. Their hearts are in it and genuinely believe in the decisions they make.

⇒ Some well thought out decisions….others leaning toward political expediency instead of choosing the best long term solution

⇒ There haven’t been a lot of news stories about Courtenay Council, but I have generally been in agreement with decisions that have been deemed newsworthy.

⇒ Council seems preoccupied with virtue signalling, while municipal issues go unaddressed. You don’t work for Dogwood, folks.

⇒ The Council is focused on the full ranges of issues that need our collective attention – from keeping roads clean and garbage picked up to attending to raising water levels and liveability in our community.

⇒ I attended 3 public hearings in the past year concerning the City Council always proposing to change property zoning so that more density can be permitted regardless of the current OCP – Council have approved 2 of those 1 yet unknown. Seems that more $$$ is very important to Council & concerns of tax paying current citizens go unheard & ignored

⇒ Responsive to public input.

⇒ It’s been a difficult year but overall they have held things together

⇒ Although there’s still time to see if their progressive words, changes, and future plans take flight and achieve results, I feel they’re headed in the right direction. Mayor Jangula and his supporters did not want to even entertain progressive changes and went so far as to deny that there were any problems with air quality, water, roads, etc. I believe he was also well known for his opposition to bike lanes and cycling.

⇒ Blaise, to say the least. We need better infrastructure, like widening the roads to four lanes around Superstore, syncing the intersection lights so you can go through rather than driving from one light and stopping and proceeding again and, as always a third crossing needs to be discussed and pushed forward.

⇒ This group of councillors and mayor are working very hard to move Courtenay toward a more progressive, socially inclusive, and economically viable community. The old guard were more concerned about law and order and keeping the streets paved for their big cars. This group cares about its citizens.

Councillor Doug Hillian

⇒ Responds to questions from electors.

⇒ Not strong position on the important issues at hand; climate change for example

⇒ Brought forth motion to have staff investigate strengthening riparian protection for Morrison Creek, to a minimum 30m. The Riparian Areas Regulation allows municipalities to meet or beat the RAR. Development within 30m of a creek is covered by an environmental development permit. That 30m can be reduced through a Qualified Environmental Professional QEP applying the RAR formula, 30m minimum is consistent, understandable and gives more protection.

⇒ He at least replied to a letter a few of us sent to city council

⇒ Doug is always visible at various agency and community issue meetings, whether a huge attendance or not. Doug replies to emails.

⇒ I think he has served his time on Council. Time for a new face.

⇒ Appears hard working and I appreciate his position on most issues.

⇒ Never see him do anything – no opinion

⇒ Been satisfied with Doug for years.

⇒ Elder statesman. Eloquent. Ever diplomatic. Grateful to have him.

⇒ Voice of experience

⇒ Senior Councillor who seems to see both sides of issues and is a very logical decision maker

⇒ I generally agree with his views and he seems well prepared for discussions.

⇒ Doug is accessible, informed and thoughtful

⇒ Wasn’t my first choice but I’m coming around to him

⇒ Councillor Hillian is very knowledgeable and experienced, he’s empathetic, cares about the environment and related issues, and is responsive to taxpayers. We had a problem with a local developer who would not follow through on their commitment to restore a damaged riparian area – despite their commitment to the City of Courtenay – and he followed through on this issue. It was resolved.

⇒ Doug has always done a great job for this community and continues to do so.

 

Melanie McCollum

⇒ What has she done?

⇒ Sharp, in a good way.

⇒ Sincere, answers emails and phone calls and returns if needed.

⇒ She is a bright light for Council

⇒ Brilliant, articulate, collaborative, fantastic!

⇒ Heart is in it and speaks her mind and conscience

⇒ Sometimes makes logical decisions but appears to be lead by other Councillors

⇒ I have heard very little reporting about her performance. Maybe I haven’t been paying enough attention.

⇒ Who?

⇒ Melanie is approachable and environmentally focused

⇒ Unknown to me

⇒ Doesn’t seem to be out in front much

⇒ Councillor McCollum is a very good listener and in her early days in office she did exactly that. She also seems to give issues a lot of thought and, so far at least, she looks for ways to resolve long-standing problems such as unhealthy air quality in the Valley due to overuse of woodsmoke. I see her as promising and hope she lasts.

Mayor Bob Wells

⇒ He knows how to chair a meeting, and keep it on track.

⇒ He is the captain of a motley crew.

⇒ I just have not seen any progress on the issues that have been there for many years; change in Mayor didn’t seem to make any difference.

⇒ It’s a difficult job trying to lead the way and find common priorities to address civic issues and sustain a vision of an inclusive community that values people of all income groups/ages. He hears what people say! He seems to work at building consensus when possible.

⇒ A pleasant surprise. I supported Erik Erickson.

⇒ Never hear from the guy!

⇒ The Mayor needs to develop some regular communication with constituents. An example: A Climate Crisis was declared for Courtenay and the CVRD. What has been done to ‘Walk the walk”?

⇒ He doesn’t seem to care about our problems and That was one reason I voted for him and I thought by a letter he wrote to the city as a council member about the Back road and Tunner traffic problem. So I won’t again. Will hopefully be able to sell my place before the hood makes it worth zero.

⇒ Never here from him except when he is at a public function with a high attendance

⇒ I have sent him a few emails and have yet to receive a reply! Not even an acknowledgement.

⇒ He seems overpaid to me. He seems an affable person, but I have no idea of his values or what he does. Other council members are much better known.

⇒ So neutral he’s barely noticeable (except for signature sunglasses on head)

⇒ Seems to be constantly screwing up – not paying attention to citizens’ concerns

⇒ Best one so far!

⇒ Good centrist.

⇒ Nice guy, easy to talk to. Not always clear he understands the issues.

⇒ I think he is a big improvement over the previous mayor.

⇒ More to the job than perching the Ray-Bans at a jaunty angle and trotting off to the next photo op.

⇒ Buddy buddy system within the council and guess who the leader of the pack is

⇒ I think he is a leader who takes an even handed approach to city issues and the opinions of City Councillors.

⇒ Seems to be in the thick of it and show pretty good leadership

⇒ Mayor Wells still has much to prove, but I support his direction on a number of issues and definitely his approach to communication (more collaborative, responsive and transparent) and technology at City Hall. Things have improved.

⇒ Bob is way more personable than the previous mayor and he is more tuned to his community running a local business.

Manno Theos

⇒ Works hard to stay in contact.

⇒ He talks a long streak about being the people’s representative but is truly not connected.

⇒ Ineffective and full of commitments to vested interests to the old boys club

⇒ He wobbles a bit, sometimes the nonpartisan ship is good, sometimes mystifying, but sometimes predictable.

⇒ Far too much emphasis on business interests and less taxation when more public funds are needed to address community issues.

⇒ Always involved……respected!

⇒ I have always felt that of all councilors, Mano is the least invested in helping the little guy and the most invested in watching out for larger money sources. It is good to have a counter voice to balance the primarily progressive council, but I feel him to be less invested in meetings and he often sounds distracted behind the zoom camera and has less in depth comments..

⇒ His ability to understand and perform the job is questionable

⇒ Bit of a loose cannon at times

⇒ Only hear from him when he is being critical. Looks after the Jangula interests at council meetings.

⇒ He has served his time on Council. I like that he votes in the negative every so often and is either the only councillor to do so, or has Doug Hillian with him. He is not afraid to give his opinion.

⇒ He has gotten along with several councils of different mayors, seems to be thoughtful and a team player.

⇒ I don’t agree with his stance on 3L

⇒ Someone has to try to reduce spending

⇒ Gentile nice man, no longer representative of Courtenay’s residents.

⇒ I don’t understand the admiration for him. I’m not sold he understands the issues.

⇒ Way too fiscally conservative. If it was up to him the only thing we would spend money on would be more roads!

⇒ I generally disagree with his views and find him rigid in his opinions.

⇒ Concerned about cost and practicality – now there’s a radical perspective.

⇒ Still stands out in the crowd – listens to what we have questions on and explains as much as he can

⇒ Always been impressed by Mr Theos seems to find the middle ground, his concern for the people here and costs.

⇒ Councillor Theos, in my opinion, is the only remaining relic of “the Jangula years”. And no matter what the issue or challenge, his mantra is to reduce taxes and protect the poor taxpayer. Forget about progress – it all costs too much for poor valley folk. My sense has always been that he is, unfortunately, under-qualified for his role.

⇒ He’s always been an advocate for change for the better and sensible.

⇒ Mano will go with the way the majority go. He has a mind of his own and could easily be manipulated by the old guard when they were on council and, perhaps, even now. How he gets the votes he does is strange.

Wendy Morin

⇒ She keeps her head down and is trying to do a good job

⇒ What has she done?

⇒ A lot of heart and insight which has at times been sorely lacking on council.

⇒ She hears the community.

⇒ She has shown real leadership around food security issues

⇒ I appreciate Wendy’s empathy and more humanitarian viewpoints on issues.

⇒ She knows her community and can talk our language.

⇒ She engages the public & has the best interest of many.

⇒ Brilliant, articulate, collaborative, fantastic! Often under-estimated. She’s wonderful.

⇒ Don’t get it. I think her background is in social issues. Although I believe it’s important, I question how much impact a city councillor can have on these issues.

⇒ Good thinker. Sees all sides of an issue

⇒ I have heard very little reporting about her performance. Maybe I haven’t been paying enough attention.

⇒ Who?

⇒ Wendy is thoughtful and focused on the people issues.

⇒ Unknown to me

⇒ I don’t know enough about Councillor Morin and must pay closer attention to her voting record and actions.

⇒ She tends to talk too much, her heart is in the right place.

David Frisch

⇒ More interested in his own personal agenda than representing constituents.

⇒ I have no way of determining how the city counsellors perform, hence any answers I give are not a fair way to answer any of these questions!

⇒ He is a pretender, he has not really done much, and sits on commissions he is not qualified for

⇒ Supports cycling without being unrealistic.

⇒ Support his interest in the outdoors

⇒ I think he has some good ideas. He is definitely a positive for the cycling people in Courtenay.

⇒ Satisfied with some aspects of his work to date and dissatisfied with other aspects.

⇒ While I applaud the recent co-op housing scheme and the use of land trust; is David Frisch in a conflict of interest?

⇒ A mixed bag of decisions.

⇒ Needs to respect the process more. Well intentioned. Needs to be more strategic and not in the weeds.

⇒ Well thought out. You know what you’re getting voting for him

Will Cole-Hamilton

⇒ He started, like all of them, promising so much, yet has lost his way

⇒ Lack of a firm position on any of the issues that he says are important to him

⇒ Engaged, responsive.

⇒ Cares about community voices and the environment.

⇒ Super smart guy! He could be our next mayor if Bob WElls decides not to run

⇒ Busy and involved, but don’t know what his priorities are.

⇒ His initiatives involving climate change action and UNDRIP are very welcome.

⇒ Best of the bunch. True leader. Could be more influential and “not as nice” when driving the necessary culture changes at City Hall.

⇒ Very good. Smart. Well spoken. Honest. Decisive.

⇒ Well spoken but does not always see the whole issue.

⇒ I met him at PAC meetings for the sewer system and he appears knowledgeable and willing to listen to others.

⇒ Dogwood puppet.

⇒ Will keeps himself informed.

⇒ How much time is spent on city work or does he pass the buck too much

⇒ Doing an okay job so far

⇒ So far so good . . . Councillor Cole-Hamilton is very tuned in to the issues that matter to me. He’s very active in the community re: those environmental issues. He goes to school on issues; he’s collaborative, and has devoted a fair bit of time honing his skills.

⇒ Will have been on the leading edge of many progressive initiatives and goes about doing his job in his quiet and unassuming manner

Courtenay says it’s satisfied with City Council, different story in Comox, survey finds

Courtenay says it’s satisfied with City Council, different story in Comox, survey finds

by | Feb 11, 2021

The next municipal elections are scheduled for Oct. 15, 2022. That’s just 20 months away.

Courtenay says it’s satisfied with City Council, different story in Comox, survey finds

By George Le Masurier

First of two parts

Comox Valley residents who participated in a Local Government Performance Review say they are generally satisfied with the performance of the Courtenay City Council and the Comox Valley Regional District board of directors. But they are mostly dissatisfied with the Comox Town Council.

With about a year-and-a-half to the next municipal elections, Decafnation conducted the survey over the last few weeks to measure how satisfied voters were with the performance of the councillors, directors and trustees they elected in 2018.

In addition to the distinctly different opinions about the Courtenay and Comox councils, the survey also found that when respondents were satisfied with most of their individual elected officials, they also approved of the whole council’s performance.

For example, the regional board directors in areas A and B received very high approval ratings and those electoral area respondents also expressed a corresponding satisfaction with the regional district board. In electoral area C, however, where most respondents said they were dissatisfied with their regional director, they were also less satisfied with the regional board as a whole.

Twice as many Courtenay residents said they are satisfied with their city council than dissatisfied. That level of satisfaction transcended all age groups

Among the Comox Valley’s 33 elected officials reviewed in the survey, Electoral Area A Director Daniel Arbour received the highest approval rating. Eighty-nine percent of his constituents said they were satisfied or very satisfied with his performance. Courtenay Councillor Doug Hillian had the second-highest rating at 68 percent and Electoral Area B Director Arzeena Hamir was third with a 65 percent approval rating.

Few of the 314 respondents to the survey indicated a strong interest in District 71 school board matters.

When asked how satisfied they were with school board trustees, in most cases the respondents chose the mid-point (neither satisfied nor dissatisfied), a response that usually indicates a lack of knowledge or a lack of interest. The written comments about school trustees point to both. 

And too few people responded from the Village of Cumberland to provide the data for meaningful analysis, although 80 percent of the villagers who did respond were decidedly satisfied or very satisfied.

It is interesting that roughly 20 percent of respondents felt neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with their councils and individual councillors. This may not be surprising given that a large majority of eligible voters were not sufficiently interested in local government to cast a ballot in the 2018 civic elections.

The survey also asked respondents to identify the top issues elected officials should address before voters go back to the polls on Oct. 15 of next year.

Although the list of top issues varied by Comox Valley jurisdiction, it was clear that respondents overall rated affordable housing as the number one issue. Traffic congestion and various other transportation issues collectively ranked second.

Comox respondents over age 55 were more dissatisfied with their town council than younger residents.

In the survey, Decafnation invited people to rate their level of satisfaction with the Comox Valley’s four local governments as well as their individual municipal, school district and Island Trust elected officials. The survey was conducted over a three-week period via Survey Monkey and the results independently analyzed by several community volunteers not associated with Decafnation.

Respondents could choose among five levels: very satisfied, satisfied, neither satisfied or dissatisfied, dissatisfied and very dissatisfied. For this story, in most instances, we have combined the top two satisfied ratings and also the bottom two dissatisfied ratings. We refer to the results as ‘satisfied,’ ‘neutral’ or ‘dissatisfied.’

Many of the survey respondents included written comments to help explain their satisfaction ratings. These can be found elsewhere on the Decafnation website starting today with Courtenay and Comox. The comments help to explain and interpret the respondents’ satisfaction levels.

This article takes a close look at the results for Courtenay and Comox. Readers can click all images for enlargement.

 

CITY OF COURTENAY

Twice as many survey respondents from Courtenay said they are satisfied (55%) with their city council than dissatisfied (27%). And that sentiment was mirrored in respondents’ impression of individual council members.

That level of satisfaction also transcended all age groups. Respondents who are 54 years old and younger had approximately the same satisfaction level as those over age 55.

How satisfied are you with the Courtenay City Council? — click to enlarge

Respondents in age groups from 18 to 54 were satisfied (59%) and dissatisfied (30%), while respondents in the age groups from 55 to 65-plus were satisfied (54%) and dissatisfied (26%).

Many of the respondents’ comments praised specific council action.

“I am relieved the council was not taken in by 3L Developments, and also that it supports the bike/pedestrian bridge to 6th St. I do wish the council would consider more green space for every new development. Everyone needs a small area of greenery, preferably a few trees and flowering bushes, a bench or two, whether for a lunch break or just to rejuvenate.”

Mayor Bob Wells received a 53 percent satisfied rating, compared with 26 percent who were dissatisfied with his performance. The percentage who gave him the top ‘very satisfied’ rating (18%) was about the same as the council as a whole (20%) and all other council members except for Manno Theos (9%).

Wells received both praise and criticism from survey participants.

You can read all the comments about city councillors and the council itself here.

“It’s a difficult job trying to lead the way and find common priorities to address civic issues and sustain a vision of an inclusive community that values people of all income groups/ages. He (Mayor Wells) hears what people say! He seems to work at building consensus when possible,” said one respondent.

But some respondents disapproved of his communication style.

“Never hear from the guy,” said one. While others said, “Never hear from him except when he is at a public function with a high attendance,” and “I have sent him a few emails and have yet to receive a reply! Not even an acknowledgement.”

Courtenay respondents were most satisfied with Councillor Doug Hillian, who got a 68 percent satisfied rating, with 44 percent rating his performance at the top very satisfied level.

Hillian’s very satisfied level ranked higher than all other Comox Valley council members. Only Electoral Area A Director Daniel Arbour (60% very satisfied) and Electoral Area B Director Arzeena Hamir (58% very satisfied) eclipsed his 44 percent mark.

One respondent said Hillian was the council’s “Elder statesman. Eloquent. Ever diplomatic. Grateful to have him.”

Another person wrote, “Councillor Hillian is very knowledgeable and experienced, he’s empathetic, cares about the environment and related issues, and is responsive to taxpayers.”

Manno Theos was the only city councillor to receive an overall dissatisfied rating (41%). Although 32 percent of respondents said they were satisfied.

What are the top issues council should address? — click to enlarge

“I have always felt that of all councillors, Manno is the least invested in helping the little guy and the most invested in watching out for larger money sources. It is good to have a counter-voice to balance the primarily progressive council, but I feel he is less invested in meetings and he often sounds distracted behind the zoom camera and has less in-depth comments.” said one respondent.

Respondents gave similar approval ratings to the remainder of the council members. They also received mostly positive comments.

Will Cole-Hamilton (52% satisfied) was called the “Best of the bunch. True leader. Could be more influential and “not as nice” when driving the necessary culture changes at City Hall.”

A respondent commented that Wendy Morin (52% satisfied) has “A lot of heart and insight which has at times been sorely lacking on council.”

 

A respondent said Melanie McCollum (48% satisfied) “is a very good listener and … also seems to give issues a lot of thought and, so far at least, she looks for ways to resolve long-standing problems such as unhealthy air quality in the Valley due to overuse of woodsmoke. I see her as promising and hope she lasts.”

More than one respondent mentioned David Firsch’s (47% satisfied) impact on the cycling community. “I think he has some good ideas. He is definitely a positive for the cycling people in Courtenay.”

Courtenay residents who took the survey said affordable housing (62%) was by far the most important issue for the council to address before the 2022 elections. Completing the city’s update of its Official Community Plan was second at 52 percent, followed by economic development (49%) and traffic congestion and/or parking (48%).

It was interesting to note that respondents nixed the idea of annexation or otherwise expanding city boundaries. Only 3 percent of respondents ranked it as an important issue.

“Council needs to build a consensus for new initiatives flowing from the OCP. ‘Building back Better’ will require engaging the community from the neighbourhood up instead of ‘top down’ policies. Support for Neighborhood Associations is one way to start engaging people where they live. Staff will need reorienting to community engagement. Add a Community Development function of Social Planning and coordinate with agencies,” said one respondent.

 

TOWN OF COMOX

Almost half of the Comox respondents (49%) said they are dissatisfied with the performance of their Town Council, while a third expressed satisfaction (33%). And only 10 percent said they were very satisfied.

But that level of dissatisfaction did not transcend all age groups among Comox respondents as it did in Courtenay. Younger Comox residents surveyed said were much more satisfied with their council’s performance than the older residents.

How satisfied are you with the Comox Town Council? — click to enlarge

Comox respondents in age groups from 18 to 54 were mostly satisfied (57%) and only 19 percent were dissatisfied. But in the older age groups, those trends were reversed. Respondents in the age groups from 55 to 65-plus were largely dissatisfied (70%). Only 17 percent of this older age group said they were satisfied.

Respondents noted the reasons for their overall dissatisfaction with Comox Council in the written comments. You can read all the comments here.

“This Council is unable to think outside of the box that it has built for itself. Because a number of the councilors are new to their positions, they seem unwilling to act or oppose the direction of the Council set by those who have past experience.,” said one respondent.

“Election promises have been broken, respect for previous OCP has been lacking in follow through, lack of a heritage registry and building permits without proper parking allocations are issues. Using OCP designated parkland space to sell for a building site and not honouring an almost 40-year-old trust agreement with Mack Laing are also issues for me. I could go on,” said another.

But there were some less critical comments. “People are doing their best under the circumstances,” said one person.

Respondents gave Mayor Russ Arnott an approval rating similar to the council as a whole: 48 percent said they were dissatisfied with his performance while 24 percent were satisfied. In the extreme ratings, 10 percent said they were very satisfied with Arnott and 20 percent were very dissatisfied.

Arnott had the highest dissatisfaction rating of all council members and the respondents’ comments reflected this.

“The mayor’s behaviour in council meetings has been interruptive and not respectful to public speakers and his newer council members. He has not attempted to follow OCP guidelines … He is a former member of council who continues to block resolution of a 40-year-old Trust that could have created a gem for Comox such as Campbell River has achieved with both the Sybil Andrews House and the Haig Brown house and property. He continues to block a Heritage Registry for Comox, at a great loss for the community,” said one respondent.

But there were other opinions, too. “He is a down-to-earth, approachable leader. He stood up for his Public Works staff when an awful fabricated story broke about interactions with the female public. His love for Comox is obvious. He cares about people,” said another person.

At the other end of the scale, first-term Councillor Nicole Minions topped council members with a 53 percent approval rating, 23 percent of respondents giving her the top level rating of very satisfied.

“Councillor Minions is a welcome addition to this council. She has attempted to initiate some progressive ideas to the council despite the older members of the council’s entrenched resistance to considering new ideas. It’s disappointing that her initial support for a meaningful attempt to resolve the town’s situation in regards to the Mack Laing Trust has been silenced,” said one respondent.

Another first-term councillor, Alex Bissinger posted the second-highest satisfied rating (49%) and had the highest percentage (34%) of very satisfied respondents. Stephanie McGowan, also in her first-term, received a 41 percent satisfied rating.

Respondents kept Councillor Patrick McKenna in positive territory with a 34 percent satisfied rating, although he had the highest dissatisfied rating (19%) of the four newcomers on the council and the highest indifferent rating (47%).

Councillors Ken Grant and Maureen Swift received mostly dissatisfied ratings at 43 percent and 36 percent respectively. Grant got the lowest satisfied rating (19%) of all Comox council members.

“Ken Grant’s jokes and comments are sexist and disrespectful. He is part of the “Old Boy’s Network “ of the last Council. He seems opposed to any substantial changes to Council’s past performance,” said one respondent.

“Ken Grant seems to represent the white male status quo,” said another.

What are the top issues council should address? — click to enlarge

Comox residents who responded to the survey said the top two issues for the town to address are climate change (50%) and resolving the Mack Laing Trust issue (50%)

Taxation and municipal finance issues and affordable housing were both important to 42 percent of respondents. Economic development was important to less than a third of respondents (32%).

The comments made by survey participants reflected these issues.

“Comox town council’s continued obstruction and delay towards responsibly resolving the Mack Lang Trust debacle is a municipal disgrace,” said one respondent.

“There’s a general lack of discussion on this town about how poorly developed the waterfront is. There’s a huge opportunity here and we have great waterfront doctors offices (which is a complete waste). It should be filled with waterfront restaurants, cafes and hotels. Again, some vision is seriously lacking here. Also a boardwalk connecting marina park to goose spit park should be a thing,” said another.

And this, “We don’t need hotdog stands on the marina park pier, nor do we need any more empty buildings. keep up the splash park, enhance the boat launch area, and, as has been promised for years, build a walkway along the shore like almost every other waterfront community on Vancouver Island. It’s embarrassing,” said a respondent.

Next time, we look at the survey results for the Comox Valley Regional District and the three electoral areas. We’ll also review the satisfaction levels of the Denman and Hornby Island representatives to the Islands Trust and District 71 school board trustees.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HOW YOU RATED COURTENAY, COMOX COUNCILLORS

 

READ YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT COUNCILS AND COUNCILLORS ON THE SURVEY HOME PAGE

 

 

 

RESPONDENTS AGE GROUPING BY JURISDICTION

 

 

 

SURVEY RESPONDENTS BY GOVERNMENT JURISDICTION

 

 

 

COMOX SATISFACTION LEVEL FOR UNDER & OVER AGE 55 RESPONDENTS

Satisfaction level of Comox respondents age 54 and under (above) and 55 and over (below)

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