Your city hall quietly went behind closed doors
You know, sometimes the really interesting stuff isn't what's shouted from the rooftops, but what happens when the doors swing shut. Take the April 28th Agenda Review Committee meeting. Councilors Knack, Stevenson, Wright, and Tang all voted 4-0 to adopt the agenda, approve minutes, and meet in public. Fair enough, right? Then, just a few moments later, Councillor Tang moved that the committee *also* meet in private. That motion, too, passed 4-0.
*Access to Information, or Lack Thereof*
It seems the private meeting was "pursuant to section 29 (advice from officials) of the *Access to Information Act*." That's the part that always gets my attention. We elect these folks to make decisions for us, and when they go behind closed doors, even if it's perfectly legal, it always makes you wonder what "advice from officials" can't be shared with the public. Honestly though, it's just a reminder that the gears of the city turn in various ways, some more visible than others.
Here's a quick breakdown: * **Public Meeting Votes:** 4-0 to meet in public. * **Private Meeting Vote:** 4-0 to meet in private, moved by K. Tang. * **Reason Given:** Section 29 (advice from officials) of the *Access to Information Act*. * **Participants:** A. Knack, A. Stevenson, J. Wright, K. Tang.
It reminds me of those long winters when the River Valley trails are still there, underneath the snow, just not immediately visible. The city keeps functioning, even if you don't always see the mechanics. We'll have to see if any of that "advice from officials" ever sees the light of day in future public discussions.
Darren Fedoruk (@deepnorth_yeg)
My colleagues are probably already dissecting this, and far more, over on the morning show. Check it out at mornings.live. Edmonton doesn't need your approval. Never did.