Skepticism over having dual-direct councillors

It seems as if the dual-direct, or double direct councillor idea has been set aside for the time being. I think this is a good thing, as it appears regional councillors also have reservations about it.

Mayor Walter Sendzik and Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce CEO Mishka Balsom have actively supported the idea in this newspaper at length. We all have our opinions and priorities.

A letter to the editor in Wednesday’s paper raised some valid points, but to anticipate demands from politicians whose positions don’t exist — well, let’s get real!

As I look at the current regional councillors, I have serious doubts as to their ability, both in time as well as interest to represent a city ward. If I’m correct in this assumption, we would be left with one person to perform the duties of two.

As well, I’m concerned we’ll have a first-class, second-class situation. You know, “I’m the regional councillor as well, I just don’t have time for that.” The dual-direct folks would make $49,000, while the plain Jane ward councillor only $20,000. More could be earned if one is a regional committee chair. Not big bucks, but nothing to sneeze at.

I’m assuming the existing regional councillors would all choose to run for the new dual-direct post. Now we have four “long termers” on regional council. Bruce Timms with seven terms, Tim Rigby with six, Brian Heit with four and Andy Petrowski with two.

Do you think someone whose interest for many years has been the Niagara region can effectively divide their allegiance between the region and a city ward? I have my doubts. Pete Morro St Catharines