Steven Hill
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An irate man was ejected from the council meeting Tuesday (Jan. 10) after repeatedly being asked to leave the chambers by Mayor Ian Sutherland.During the meeting, after Sutherland asked attendees if there was any business, which needed addressing before the next council meeting, Richard Moore of Moore Roofing came forward to read a prepared statement.
Moore began with a brief statement about the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, but was quickly shut down by Sutherland.
"There is legal action pending between Mr. Moore and the DOS," Sutherland explained to the audience. "So, I must ask you to discontinue your presentation as this is not appropriate to discuss in a public meeting."
Sutherland attempted to continue with the council meeting, but Moore refused to be silenced.
"Have me removed," he bellowed at the mayor. "Have me removed. I have the right to be here."
A recess was called until RCMP members could arrive to remove the irate Moore.
As RCMP led him away from council chambers, Moore could be heard shouting, "I want someone to witness this. Have a look at the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. What's the charge? Someone witness this."
Council resumed after Moore was taken away in a squad car.
Bear Aware gets funding
Squamish Council approved releasing funds from the 2006 operational budget to fund a Bear Aware program and coordinator from January 15 to March 31.
Director of protective services Cliff Doherty in a report to council said the community had achieved a great deal in a short time in regards to bear awareness and education, and recommended releasing funds to cover the program from January to May.
Coun. Corinne Lonsdale said she had concerns dealing with issues outside of the regular budget. She suggested limiting the contract to the end of March to see if the provincial government could help with funding in April.
"There is soon going to be 250 to 300 people in town without a paycheque," she said. "I'm just worried about our budget."
Coun. Patricia Heintzman strongly supported releasing the funds and continuing the program.
"We have a tremendous opportunity here," she said. "Environmental stewardship is one of our key strategies."
