Kamloops city councillors are moving to try to push back against suggestions that today’s special council meeting was called by the now-suspended acting CAO himself.

In a news release put out this morning, the councillors are taking aim at suggestions Byron McCorkell called the meeting to get himself reinstated, which had been suggested by the Mayor in an interview with Radio NL and other media outlets.

“Kamloops City Council and administration are issuing further clarification on the declaration of a special council meeting to be held this afternoon, March 28, at 3:00 pm, following Mayor Hamer-Jackson’s suspension of acting CAO Byron McCorkell,” said the news release. “The Special Council Meeting was called by Deputy Mayor Mike O’Reilly and Councillor Dale Bass, pursuant to the provisions of the Community Charter. Notice was issued shortly after this, also in accordance with the Charter.”

It goes on to chastise the Mayor for both his move to suspend McCorkell, as well as his decision to not attend the special session of council.

“Staff and Council recognize that the meeting is scheduled prior to a long weekend and many people have travel or personal plans for the holiday, however the Mayor is strongly encouraged to attend this special meeting and articulate his alleged grounds for suspension,” said the release. “While the allegations for the suspension would be considered personnel-related, and therefore cannot be shared publicly, as per privacy legislation and confidentiality provisions in the Community Charter. Mayor Hamer-Jackson should have had his report documenting his rationale prepared in advance of issuing the suspension and should have it ready to present in today’s Closed Council meeting.”

The statement goes on to suggest the meeting needs to take place right away.

“Having failed to articulate any cause or justification other than a personal preference to move in a different direction, it is in the best interests of the corporation to address this matter immediately.”

Hamer-Jackson, in his chat with Radio NL on Wednesday, said that he will not be attending as he has previous obligations.