​Mixed reaction to Kincardine councillor being excused from budget meeting

To the Editor:
RE: “Kincardine councillor excused from budget meeting due to inappropriate comments”

We find it concerning that our elected representatives do not want any debate on the validity of the presentations to council.

We appreciate Mr. Stewart trying to understand the need for ever increasing taxes in our community. I see houses being built on both sides of town and would think that the increased tax revenue would make it easier on all of us but apparently that is not the case?

Instead of blindly accepting increases for the taxpayer, we need more skeptics like Mr. Stewart and I, for one, thank him for his efforts.

Ken and Janet Ritz
Kincardine
 

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To the Editor:

Based on your report, what exactly did Bill Stewart do wrong?

Doesn’t staff report to council such that if staff’s report is deficient or requires further work, it’s entirely fair game (and wholly appropriate) for that to be on the record?

The quote from the mayor about “insubordination” seems to confuse the fact that it’s actually staff that works for the town, controlled by council, who work for the taxpayers.

It’s not insubordination for a “superior” (in terms of authority) to be asking that the “subordinate” prepare a more-detailed report in order for the “superior” to make an informed decision.

Garbage in, garbage out.

Kevin Zych
Inverhuron
 

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To the Editor:

Fantastic to see we have strong and moral leadership which is holding council to a higher standard.

Keith Battler
Kincardine