Councillor questions bias in committee appointments

Vernon city councillor Kari Gares will ask her colleagues to consider a new framework for how members of council are appointed to committees, especially the high profile ones like Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) and Greater Vernon Advisory Committee (GVAC).

The motion comes after over 30 appointments to committees November 23 remained substantially the same.

The appointments are made by the mayor (Victor Cumming), but must still be approved by City Council.

Gares is bringing a motion before council today asking that administration devise a policy that encourages fairness, equality and effective succession planning when making committee appointment recommendations.

“Such policy should limit the length of tenure an elected official can sit on a board, or a committee, during their term. The mayor should be the one constant on any board such as RDNO or GVAC to provide continuity of information,” Gares’ motion stated.

Fire spreads to house

Vernon home "significantly damaged" by grass fire

Apr 02, 2026

Youth Health Services

Youth immunization, sexual health clinic opening in Vernon

Apr 02, 2026

Displaced For A Week

Some residents still displaced from fatal apartment fire

Apr 01, 2026

Gares feels such a policy will limit the perception of personal bias which can be seen to influence committee recommendations and appointments.

Attempts by previous members of council to change the policy have failed.