A new report is out that suggests the Island Corridor Foundation lacks transparency and that has caused a lack of trust and support among Vancouver Island politicians.
The report was commissioned by the Association of Vancouver Island Coastal Communities and found the group that is supposed to be working to restart rail service on the island is not being open or up front about how it will do that.
The report suggests local politicians no longer trust or believe in the credibility of Chief Executive Officer Graham Bruce or in the ICF board. It says that stems from overly optimistic predictions and public promises that have not happened. One of those promises was that passenger rail service could be restarted for $20.9-million. Many local politicians don't think that's realistic.
The report recommends several steps the ICF can take to open up its finances and business plan. It's been reported that the Foundation is studying the recommendations might already be implementing some of them.
Former MLA Graham Bruce is the CEO of the ICF and his contract was renewed recently, even though there were strong objections from some Island mayors. Last year the Regional District of Nanaimo rescinded on a promise to give the ICF one million dollars based on their ongoing concerns.