Whitehorse Daily Star

City staying silent about meeting

Members of city council will not be commenting on what was discussed at an internal meeting held Wednesday on Coun. Michelle Friesen’s practice of bringing her baby to council meetings.

By Whitehorse Star on March 17, 2023

Members of city council will not be commenting on what was discussed at an internal meeting held Wednesday on Coun. Michelle Friesen’s practice of bringing her baby to council meetings.

Mayor Laura Cabott did tell the Star prior to the meeting it was called because concerns were raised by some members of council, staff and the public regarding how the baby’s presence can be disruptive to others in council chambers.

Cabott said at the time that Friesen has not been told she cannot bring her baby, but the meeting was held to discuss the matter.

A statement was released Thursday by the city regarding the matter. It says: “Whitehorse city council met this Wednesday and had a constructive meeting.

“For now, council is focused on finding a solution and they are working together internally. As a result, council won’t be providing any more information at this time.”

Cabott explained in the interview prior to the meeting that it was one thing when the baby was younger.

Now that he’s eight months old, he is becoming more active, doing what growing babies do, she said.

Friesen has had to leave council chambers at times, she pointed out.

Cabott said council business is important to the city, and it requires the participation of elect-ed representatives.

During Monday’s meeting, council chambers were about 75 per cent full with Friesen supporters.

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