People in Witless Bay are shaking their heads over government’s refusal to at least look into the affairs of the town council, one which they describe not only as dysfunctional but which has made decisions that do not abide by the Municipalities Act.

At the focal point is the environmentally sensitive area Ragged Beach and a decision by the town to push through development of a road from nearby Maloney’s Lane Extension.

Lorna Yard, who’s running for council, successfully appealed council’s decision to the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador last month. They’re concerned that allowing a road will eventually allow broader development of the coastline.

Yard says just when you think things could not get worse, council has called a meeting for tonight with one item on the order paper – Maloney’s Lane.

She says the town has basically been shut down since June. Staff has either quit or are on medical leave, there’s supposed to be a public meeting tomorrow night but there is no talk of it, permits aren’t being issued, and people who pay their taxes monthly are unable to do so.