Former interim fire chief speaks out

Last month I did a post on Interm Fire Chief/Director of Protective Services Ken Brands quitting...

More dysfunction within our local government ranks

Just read this week's Promoter and saw the following news story by Joni MacFarlane that wasn't in their on-line news...

Former interim fire chief speaks out

Former Interim Fire Chief Ken Brands had a few words to say to council during the public hearing portion of the meeting on April 3.

"On behalf of myself, the office and the Fire Commissioner and the Crowsnest Pass Fire and Rescue Service, I wish to thank you for the support and approval of our operational plans and our more-with-less budget plans," said Brands. "With this vision and the enthusiasm and expertise so evident with the Fire and Rescue Service leaders, the level of service and dedication and proficiency of the members will grow."

Brands then attempted to relay his experience at an in-camera session that took place on Tuesday, March 20 shortly before his departure, but was stopped by Mayor Bruce Decoux.

The mayor told Brands he couldn't publicly talk about any discussions that took place in-camera. These sessions are not open to the press or the public.

Brands went on to describe comments he learned that went out to the public after that in-camera session.

Two days later, Brands said, he "requested confirmation of administrative support" but was told he would be called later. During that same morning, "it was brought to my attention that administration had been heard to relate how unprofessional and whining we had been at council on Tuesday night">

Brands said he tried again to get administration's support of his department's plan for the future.

"I asked twice and twice received no reply," he said. "At this point, I knew I could not continue and stated, I'm done and left."

Brands again thanked the mayor and council for their support.

"I ask you to please keep in mind that you have a Fire and Rescue service with great potential for growth and further service to the community."


COMMENT: Oh, what this man could say if only allowed to speak his mind and tell us all the dirt, intrique and backstabbing that goes on at these in-camera meetings?

As I have said before "when I was on council, I could count on one hand the number of in-camera meetings we had over a 3-year period". These guys we got now go in-camera at practically every council meeting, which suggests to me transparency, openness and individual accountability have gone the way of the dodo bird.

Obviously, too much Council business is being conducted behind closed doors, instead of out in the open as it is meant and should be. And this in large part is the main reason this community is so upset right now. People feel excluded from the process that affects their life's. They're demanding to be part of the process, not an after thought, but an integral player at the table.

Kudos to Ken Brands for stepping up to the plate in trying to do what so many before him were afraid to do i.e. speaking out.



Speak the truth, but leave immediately after.