Aspen View School Divisionís transition to a six-ward system is still a work in progress.
At their board meeting on Feb. 7, the new system was on the table but didnít pass the required three readings as some trustees voiced disagreements.
Trustee Dennis MacNeil made a motion to approve the proposed six-ward system, but trustee Randy Uglanica had some issues with it; specifically the boundaries of the south wards.
ìI would like to see the realignment moved over on the eastern edge of Radway, straight up to follow Highway 63,î explained Uglanica, referring specifically to the boundary between the SC and SE wards, and his belief that the line should be shifted further to the west.
A seven-ward system was also being considered, but Uglanica was concerned that neither proposal would provide equal representation for all wards.
ìI think where those (boundary) lines are is very significant,î he argued.
MacNeil disagreed.
ìAll you are doing is representing the kids in that ward,î he said. ìWhere the line is, really isnít significant.î
Looking at the two options before the board, MacNeil saw more value in the six-ward variation.
ìThe six-ward proposal provides more opportunity for trustees to be elected from rural areas, while still maintaining appropriate and balanced representation,î MacNeil stated. ìIt is also looking towards the future.î
Both Uglanica and trustee Paul Ponich voted against the first reading of the policy to accept the new six-ward system. Only Uglanica voted against the second reading, but that was enough to block a third reading.
The disagreement delayed the third reading until their next meeting on Feb. 21 (this Thursday).
With so much time, work and public consultation having already gone into the process, MacNeil expressed his concerns that continued delays could result in a backlash from stakeholders.
ìI think if we choose to go anywhere else, I think there would be some ramifications in terms of how people see our board in the future,î he said. ìIt is the 11th hour. If we donít move ahead with this at this point, weíre shooting ourselves in the foot.î
MacNeil went on to say that if the boundaries of the six-ward system were changed this late in the game, there would be an outcry from the public.
ìI really in my heart believe if we donít get this done, our public is going to hold us responsible,î he said. ìI think we need to do the right thing. We need to put the trust back in the word trustee. This is what we have presented, and this is what they expect us to go with.î
