While discussing during a recent meeting, conversation brewed up again regarding the removal of Steven VanLeeuwen as deputy mayor for Centre Wellington.
This motion was first brought up by Mayor Kelly Linton following VanLeeuwen joining the “End the Lockdown Caucus.” It was decided VanLeeuwen would keep his role as deputy mayor pending a report from the integrity commissioner.
Councilor Neil Dunsmore however said during Mondays meeting this report would be nothing more than a waste of time.
“We’re going to send this to the integrity commissioner for 100-120 days to have him come back and tell us that this is our decision. He is absolutely right.” said Dunsmore.
Dunsmore agreed lockdown is not something nobody wants to be in, but is the right measure to be taken to keep people safe from COVID-19.
“Is the Premier handling this perfectly? No. But these are uncharted waters. Are the lockdowns good? Absolutely not. But they are the safest course of action right now. We need to protect the health and lives of our community.”
VanLeeuwen spoke saying again his reason for joining the caucus was to open a dialog and highlight the mental health issues rising from the lockdown, also saying he would accept whatever choice council would make.
While much debate went back and forth to wait for a report, it was decided council did not need to wait. VanLeeuwen lost his role as deputy mayor but will still remain as a councilor.
Investigation will still take place by the integrity commissioner to determine if VanLeeuwen had breached council’s code of conduct.
