Former chairperson disturbed by Environmental commission

As a former chairperson of the Vernon Environmental Commission, I am disturbed with the current EC's actions. Their April 8 meeting brought to light many problems. One can listen to this meeting at www.vernontaxpayersassociation.com. It s long, but eye-opening.

The Environmental Commission is comprised of 5-7 members. They have a budget and can hire a secretary, who calls the role, records meetings and types the minutes. Listening to the tape, it becomes apparent that the EC now has a hired secretary who actively participates in all discussions. It's sometimes difficult to discern who is actually chairing the meeting.

The EC has the power to acquire property, subject to the approval of the governing body. According to Vernon code that means the council. The EC presented its project to the council in May. However, the chairperson says she's been negotiating the purchase price prior to April. When did she receive the authority to do so?

Claiming their meeting was about negotiations, it was closed to the public, and done in executive session. For more than two hours they discussed numerous subjects including grants, history of the camp, and how to avoid discussing demolition and park maintenance costs with the public. In my opinion, this was no executive session.

The acquisition of Camp Sussex has many serious questions that should be openly discussed and answered. Possible illegal, behind closed doors activities do not help Vernon residents.

Carol Kadish
Vernon