I am writing to respond to your editorial suggesting that I step back from performing the duties required as mayor, and in particular not greet a visiting dignitary representing Canada's biggest trading partner.
As you should be aware, unlike other orders of government that take a break during an election period, local government does not. Civic business continues and all members of council must continue to perform the duties they were elected to carry out including participating in public hearings, budget discussions, and yes attendance at public functions.
I will not step back from doing the work that people of Prince George hired me to do, and that includes continuing to meet people to hear their concerns about everything from bears in their neighbourhood to beer at CN Centre.
And yes it also includes greeting school children who visit City Hall and welcoming foreign dignitaries like the Consul General from the United States.
As for your other suggestion of telling the Consul General not to come, I reject that altogether. As the mayor of a city that relies heavily on global trade, we should renounce any suggestion of closing our doors but instead welcome her and any others who want to visit our great city with open arms.
Let's welcome the world so they can see the great things we have to offer. So they can visit our world renowned university, get to know our dynamic people, and meet with business leaders.
This will ultimately build a strong respectful relationship with all our global trading partners. I applaud IPG for their work in securing the U.S. Consul General's visit as she represents not just our largest trading partner but our friend and neighbour.
Dan Rogers
Mayor, City of Prince George
