Call for diversity and inclusion committee members draws sparse interest

By Mark Squibb

The Town of Paradise has adjusted the terms of reference for it’s diversity committee after not finding enough residents interested in serving on it.

Councillor Jennifer Hiscock said the terms of reference sets the number of committee members at six. But when the current committee’s two-year term ended and a call for new members was issued, the Town, didn’t receive enough volunteers to form a committee.

As a result, staff recommend reducing the complement from six to four and opening the membership to residents outside Paradise.

“This is a really great committee,” said Hiscock, herself a former member. “It does a lot of really good things for the community.”

Council was agreeable to the amendments.

“I think diversity is very important,” said councillor Sheldon Antle. “Inclusiveness, equality, accessibility, all those ideas are very important in this day and age.”

Mayor Patrick Martin said it’s very important to recognize everybody.

The Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility (EDIA) Advisory Committee, formerly known as the diversity committee, was established in 2023.

“This committee seeks to have diverse representation to ensure a well-balanced committee, including but not limited to Indigenous peoples, faith-based groups, racialized individuals, individuals of diverse cultural origins, newcomers, new Canadians, 2SLGBTQI+, black, Indigenous, and people of colour (BIPOC) community members, or individuals with a disability,” said Hiscock. “Individuals with professional knowledge or living or lived experience are considered. The committee provides valuable advice by offering community perspectives on programs, services and long-term planning. This input enhances decision making and contributes to high quality service delivery for residents of Paradise.”

The motion to reduce the size of the committee was approved unanimously.