Ed Holder arrives as mayor, with BRT debate not far behind

It took less than 10 minutes for the debate over London's Bus Rapid Transit System (BRT) to foist its way onto the agenda of Ed Holder's term as the city's new mayor.

Holder was officially sworn in Monday night in front of 700 people at the London Convention Centre. Holder, a first-time mayor with two past terms as a member of Parliament, took his oath of office along with 14 members of council, including eight returning members.

The swearing in was followed by the first official meeting of the new council. The only agenda item: a vote to support Holder's pick of Ward 4 Coun. Jesse Helmer as his deputy mayor.

Though it's largely a ceremonial role (the deputy represents the mayor when he's away), some seethe choice of Helmer as a move by Holderto "reach across the aisle." Helmer is an ardent BRT supporter; Holder campaigned against the $500-million transit plan.

But instead of unanimous support for Holder's motion to nominate Helmerfor the two-year term, Coun. Paul Van Meerbergen voted against it.

Why?

Three letters: B-R-T.

Couldn't support pro-BRTcouncillor

After the meeting, Van Meerbergentold CBC News he wanted to show support for the anti-BRT voters who elected him in Ward 10.

"In good conscience, I could not support somebody that is so strongly supportive of BRT for the position of deputy mayor," he said.

"I wanted it on the record so that the people who sent me to city hall knew that I was standing up for their wishes, and that was one way to do it at the very start."

Coun. Steve Hillier, a first-time councillor in Ward 14, said his no vote had nothing to do with Hillier or BRT. He just doesn't support the notion of having a deputy mayor. Hillier said it's an unnecessary position because the mayor can at any time appoint a councillor to represent him while he's away.

After the meeting, Holder downplayed the importance of the twovotes cast against his motion.

"We've got a council that's diverse in their opinions and I think that makes us stronger," he said. "These councillors are going to be split on a lot of issues and that's how it should be."

The last council gave approval to BRTroutes in a spring vote, but the plan still has many hurdles to clear. In October, a six-month pause was announced in one stage of the public consultation process over concerns about heritage buildings along the BRT routes.

Many see this new council as one evenly split between BRTsupporters and opponents, setting it up as a key issue with the potential toshape Holder's term.

During his inaugural speech, Holder said his priorities would be to improve London's transportation system, bring more investment to the city and help its less fortunate.

"We come with diverse backgrounds, but what we all have in common is a commitment to serve, I know that our debates will be healthy, our dialogue will be rich and our decisions will be well considered," he said.

"We are accountable to each other, to work as a cohesive council, guided by the best interests of the people we serve ... and the best interests of the city."

Coun. Elizabeth Peloza, a council newcomer elected in Ward 12, said she's doesn't think too much should be read into the two opposition votes.

"I support Jesse and I look forward to his leadership when required as deputy mayor," she said. "This is a great night and a room full of people interested in moving London forward."

London's next council meeting is set for Wednesday at 5 p.m.