Some Common Councillors don’t see eye to eye on hiring what are considered 5 key positions in the city.
The positions vacant are in human resources, communications, Commissioner of Water and Commissioner of Growth and Development.
Deputy Mayor Shelley Rinehart believes if we’re going to grow our community we’ll need the manpower. Common Councillor Donnie Snook strongly disagrees, saying we shouldn’t add to staff unless it’s for front line services.
Councillor John Mackenzie doesn’t believe 5 positions is too much and says the jobs need to be filled. West Side Councillor Bill Farren disagrees, saying that every year before budget he’s receives a list of positions that have to be filled and is fed up with it. He says if they’re asking for Saint Johnners to do more with less, so should city staff.
Mayor Mel Norton supports the hirings and says it’s filling positions that are already in place, not adding new ones.
Conflict At Council Over Filling 5 City Positions
