Lantzville imploded but no one is saying why.
There have been three main issues for Lantzville, which one caused the councillors to snap?
- Nanaimo/Lantzville water deal
- Lantzville Foothills development project
- Urban Agriculture permits
So far, none of the councillors has given any tangible reasons for quitting. Some say the issue was over the appointment of the Mayor to the Regional District of Nanaimo.
The senior staff includes a Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), a Director of Financial Services, and a Director of Corporate Administration (DCA). In recent years, those positions have had high turnover.
Lantzville has a population of 3,400 with 6 councillors and a mayor. How does this compare to other places in BC?
The City of Rossland and District of Mackenzie both have a mayor and six councillors which govern a similar sized population. The Village of Cumberland has a growing population but seems to function with a mayor and four councillors.
Should Lantzville merge with Nanaimo? It might reduce redundant administration positions and reduce taxes. In last few years, Lantzville’s population has dropped significantly as per the table below.
Towns in British Columbia
| Name | Area Type | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2011-12 Change | 2012-13 Change | 2013-14 Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lantzville | District Municipality | 3,624 | 3,659 | 3,505 | 3,496 | 1.0% | -4.2% | -0.3% |
| Rossland | City | 3,614 | 3,632 | 3,638 | 3,650 | 0.5% | 0.2% | 0.3% |
| Mackenzie | District Municipality | 3,544 | 3,539 | 3,513 | 3,538 | -0.1% | -0.7% | 0.7% |
| Cumberland | Village | 3,436 | 3,475 | 3,497 | 3,506 | 1.1% | 0.6% | 0.3% |
Lantzvillians might wonder what goes on behind closed doors at City Hall…
