LETTER – Referendum process would have revealed problems with PAC site

If Council had taken the democratic route and pursued a referendum rather than relying on the Alternate Approval Process (AAP) for the Multiplex and the Performing Arts Centre, the public hearing component would have exposed a critical issue early on: the suitability of the proposed sites.

A referendum process would have required full disclosure, public scrutiny, and transparent evaluation. Instead, the Build Kamloops select committee process has failed to provide meaningful oversight.

Both proposed sites have now been revealed as requiring major, costly rehabilitation before construction could even begin. This is exactly the kind of information that must be examined before authorizing debt, not after commitments are made and taxpayers are left holding the bill.

Going forward, any major building project or land purchase must undergo the level of public review and accountability that only a referendum process provides. A referendum compels city administration and council to justify the need, cost, location, and long-term impact ensuring voters are fully informed before their tax dollars are committed.

For these reasons, Council should reconsider the current AAPs and instead submit these proposals to a binding referendum during the upcoming civic election. This is the only path that restores public trust, strengthens democratic participation, and ensures responsible stewardship of taxpayer money.

GARRY DAVIES