Gary Korpan Questions Mayor Ruttan

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John;

I just read in today's Daily News that you  issued a statement that: "people of all faiths are entitled to utilize facilities that are owned or controlled by the City of Nanaimo".

That is most laudable and up until May 5, 2014 that has been the City's policy. However, the following motion adopted by Council 8 to 1 (including you) not only contradicts that long standing policy but effectively rescinds it.


MINUTES - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE 2014 -MAY-05 PAGE 3
7.OTHER BUSINESS:(a)Councillor Pattje – Proposed Motion–Vancouver Island Conference Centre Events
It was moved and seconded that the City of Nanaimo advise the VICC that as  owners of the facility, any events that are associated with organizations or people that  promote or have a history of divisiveness, homophobia, or other expressions of hate not be permitted and as such, advise the VICC not to permit in a City owned facility, the upcoming Leadercast event that is scheduled for 2014-MAY-09
. The motion carried
.Opposed:Councillor McKay

Perhaps if Council had asked for a Staff report, possibly a legal opinion, they might have realized the unconstitutionality of such a motion. Mind you, in the 2nd decade of the 21st century most Nanaimo citizens would have assumed their Council members would have understood, and abided by, the fundamental principles of the Canadian Constitution without having to check with others.

Please advise us as to when and where you called a special open Council meeting to rescind the motion of May 5th? While a mayor has the authority to call the Council to a meeting to reconsider a motion, you do not have the authority to unilaterally over-rule a Council motion.

Gary Korpan