Reeve's unilateral decision calls council unity into question

Posted Feb 2, 2012 By Gail Paquette

EMC News -Madoc -A letter by Councillor Shelby Kramp-Neuman included in the December minutes of the Centre Hastings Council meeting brought public attention to a unilateral decision made by the municipal Reeve Owen Ketcheson.

In question was Reeve Ketcheson's written warning to a former employee that strongly suggested a recourse of legal action.

The warning reinforced that the only people allowed behind the counter or within the confines of the municipal office on Furnace Street, where confidential business takes place, were employees and council members.

Kramp-Neuman insisted the sole purpose of the inclusion of her correspondence in the minutes was to reiterate her belief that council was a democratic body and that the decision of the reeve to act unilaterally jeopardized the council's unity.

"I am concerned upon being advised that communication with threat of legal action has been issued by a member of council without any prior discussion or approval," said Kramp-Neuman.

In his response at the January 25 council meeting, the reeve said, "The municipal offices were constructed with significant barriers to protect the public interest. In this regard, accessibility to the building and its records is of paramount importance and cannot be taken lightly. I will be vigilant in ensuring that employees and information are not compromised. In this regard it is reasonable to expect those that wish to visit municipal employees socially must do so in the reception area."

This rule of course also holds true for those conducting business.

Several residents in this rural community concurred that the nature of a small town municipal office often entertains stepping beyond the boundaries of the locked door and glass windowed reception portal.

The letter, however, set a defining precedent for all.

"It is the principle of it all," said Councilor Kramp-

Neuman. "Unilateral decisions taken by a council member without due consideration and subsequent approval of council reflect upon council as a democratic body.

"My vision is to work in concert with all members of council.

"We need to seek consultation and work together."