Heather Wright/The Independent

Some Plympton-Wyoming council candidates took aim at mayoral candidate Tim Wilkins’ suggestion he might use Strong Mayor’s Powers to hire a CAO.

The criticism came during the opening statements of the second All-Candidates meeting in the community; this one held in Wyoming by the local Lions Club.

Oct. 1, Wilkins told the Camlachie audience there had been backroom dealings during the last council term. And, the mayoral candidate added, if he was asked to say what powers he would consider using under the new, controversial legislation, Wilkins said it would be the ability hire a CAO.

“The lack of judgement, if followed through, will not only cost us the loss of a proven leader, but will ultimately cost us hundreds of thousands of dollars in severance, wrongful dismissal, and lawyers’ fees,” said incumbent council candidate Mike Vasey on Oct. 8.

“Why? Because (Wilkins Oct. 1 answer) shows premeditation and a perceived threat to our staff. It’s all in the public and it’s all on video for the judge to view,” said Vasey.

John Van Klaveren, who is also seeking a second term, repeated Vasey’s theme.

“Throughout this campaign, some very serious allegations have been made about our council: allegations of backroom deals, corruption, and scandal, and questions about the integrity of people who serve around the council table. Those are serious words. They’re not simply disagreements over policy or decisions. They are accusations that question the character and reputation of good people, people sitting right here with us tonight. Some for decades,” he said.

“Disagreement is healthy. Debate is healthy. Holding elected officials accountable is absolutely necessary. If we are going to make serious allegations publicly, and we should be prepared to state clearly what we are alleging, provide the facts to support those claims and be accountable for our words.”

During a question about the Strong Mayor Powers, Wilkins didn’t speak about using them for hiring a CAO. Instead he repeated what he said Oct. 1 – that the powers are undemocratic.

Wilkins added if there was a decision of council he didn’t agree with, he’d defer it and expect the issue to be discussed on social media.

“I think at the end of the day, you’re going to get the results of what you want from the public.”

Online voting in Plympton-Wyoming started Friday.