A chance for Parksville council members to meet with other elected officials in the region has emerged.
In a letter received by Parksville council on Wednesday, April 7, RDN chair Tyler Brown asked council if they would be interested in attending a meeting with officials from the District of Lantzville, the City of Nanaimo, the City of Parksville, the Town of Qualicum Beach and the Regional District of Nanaimo.
“Given our shared commitment to leadership in climate change mitigation, environmental stewardship, responsible growth management and economic coordination, among other priorities, such a forum could afford an opportunity to facilitate intergovernmental communication among elected officials within the RDN, providing a platform for sharing information about our respective strategic priorities and initiatives for the coming year,” wrote Brown in his letter.
Mayor Ed Mayne said he was unsure what could be achieved with so many officials in a single meeting, but did note that nothing ventured, nothing gained.
“It might be a little bit confusing - especially when you’re overweighted by the fact Nanaimo’s council is on there, with the size of it compared to the rest of us,” he said.
However, Coun. Mark Chandler he still considered it incumbent that Parksville participate.
Given the current health protocols, the meeting would be held virtually, with the tentative date of May 18.
After deliberation, Parksville council voted unanimously in favour of attending the meeting, with city staff instructed to draft an affirmative response to Brown.