Mayor hits out at caustic behaviour
Peter Waterman says he’s had dead rats delivered to his home, along with bullying, verbal abuse and graffiti
Mayor Peter Waterman is fighting back against the lack of civility at council meetings and disrespectful behaviour and abuse directed at him.
“In council meetings, I have witnessed bullying, disrespectful comments under one’s breath that are still heard, strong disrespectful body language and harassing commentary,” Waterman told fellow councillors Monday.
He was referring to behaviour associated with some of those against the proposed Banks Crescent development and, more recently, those opposed to locating a regional compost facility at the Summerland landfill.
On numerous occasions Waterman has asked audience members to refrain from expressing support — applauding and cheering, jeering and groaning — in response to councillors’ comments.
A few times, Waterman and members of the public have even exchanged heated words.
“All of this is meant by those individuals to intimidate those around them with differing opinions,” he said.
On previous occasions, Waterman has said that community members and business owners have told him they support Banks Crescent, but are afraid to speak out.
“Everyone has a right to speak and be heard, please be respectful,” Waterman said.
He also noted the many ways the public can make their opinions known, including through letters, social media, petitions and public hearings.
In addition, Waterman’s council initiated opportunities for the public to speak at the beginning of a meeting and at the end prior to adjournment.
“I have received phone calls and emails from people asking me when I’m going to do something about this,” Waterman said.
In reply to a question by The Herald, he explained that a mayor has the authority to adjourn a meeting, to ask someone to leave or have the RCMP remove disruptive individuals.
For some time, Waterman has endured personal abuse at his home and in public.
He mentioned this in general terms at a meeting a couple of months ago, but did not provide details until Monday.
“Personally, I have been subjected to dead rats delivered to my home, bullying, verbal abuse and disgusting graffiti,” Waterman said.
“This activity has no place in a civil society. Rather than strengthening our democracy, it diminishes it,” he told council.
He encouraged community members to continue to ask questions and express opinions, but to be considerate of others when doing so.