Harrison Hot Springs village council referred a potential anti-racism/anti-discrimination policy to a future Committee of the Whole meeting for more intensive consideration. The vote was 3-2 with Couns. Michie Vidal and Leo Facio opposed.
A Committee of the Whole meeting is not bound by the same time constraints as council meetings and therefore allows for extended and open discussion concerning future policies and initiatives.
Mayor Fred Talen said while he supports a policy of this nature, there are details that need further discussion. For example, Talen wanted to go into more detail when it comes to the roles of an investigator and potential sanctions that may apply to public officials who may violate the policies.
"I'd just like a little bit more time and I'd like the opportunity for some public input...to see if there's any feedback on this draft policy," Talen said. "I think it's a really excellent start, but i think it benefits from maybe a little bit of mtime ruminating on it and discusssing it further."
In March, council directed village staff to develop an anti-racism/anti-discrimination policy to provide a framework for reporting instances of discrimination based on race or other bases. The staff developed the policy after reviewing the Fraser Valley Regional District's anti-racial discrimination policy as well as examining similar regulations from other municipalities.
Vidal was the member of council who first moved for the creation of this policy.
"It reflects that the village is not only compliant but is 100 per cent committed to a culture of respect and inclusion," Vidal said. "This policy is not only a reflection of these practices; it sets a new standard for accountability and will serve as a tool in empowering our council and staff to act with integrity and responsibility."
In late April, council unanimously approved the creation of a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion plan, which included the possibility of painting a rainbow crosswalk in Harrison. Further specifics of this plan are still in the works.
In other council business:
- Council heard a presentation on fare updates from B.C. Transit. On a related note, council voted to send a letter to the Ministry of Transportation concerning funding for a B.C. Transit route from Agassiz to Mission. The letter will include a request to meet with the ministry at the upcoming Union of B.C. Municipalities Convention, scheduled for late September in Victoria.
- Village officials are looking for public input concerning liquor license bylaw amendments concerning the Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa, Milos Greek Taverna and Black Forest Restaurant.
The next regular Harrison Hot Springs Village Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 5, at 5:30 p.m. at Memorial Hall (290 Esplanade Ave.).
Online attendance is also available via Zoom; those interested can register through harrisonhotsprings.ca. Video recordings of the meetings will be archived on the village’s YouTube page.
