Banff hoteliers continue to lobby local politicians to expand the mandate of the finance committee to include qualified representation from the private sector.
Darren Reeder, executive director of Banff Lake Louise Hotel Motel Association (BLLHMA), said the group is seeking a formal response from Town council on this matter because it’s an important priority for the organization.
“Having this additional oversight is key to legitimizing the role of the finance committee and providing the assurances the commercial sector seeks with respect to how our tax dollars are being spent,” Reeder said.
The Town of Banff’s finance committee meets several times a year to review financial policies, financial statements, fees and charges, as well as the annual financial plan.
The mayor and Town councillors are the sole members of the finance committee.
Mayor Karen Sorensen said council has not discussed the issue recently, but council did indicate to the business community last year they wanted to watch Canmore’s process during 2012 budget deliberations.
She said the feedback she received on the process used by Canmore last year – which included a budget committee comprised of two councillors and four public members – was that it was not as efficient or effective as hoped.
“I am not saying I am opposed to their (BLLHMA’s) request, but I am not convinced that’s the way to go,” she said.
“I see council as public members. I do see the elected council as the representatives of the public and private sectors.”
Mayor Sorensen also said Banff has an open and transparent public budget process, and noted the finance committee is also open to members of the public to attend.
“Any member of the public, let alone selected members, have the opportunity to contribute,” she said.
Banff’s budget deliberations begin Nov. 19, from 9 a.m. to noon, in council chambers.
