The Coalition of Progressive Electors has always claimed to stand behind the people as opposed to the powerful, voicing the concerns of the weak as opposed to tthose of the strong. But it seems coalition councillor David Cadman believes it's even more important to lobby on behalf of rule lawyers - a clearly under-represented constituency. An example: earlier this week, Vision Vancouver councillor Heather Deal tabled a motion which would have seen her colleagues "support the City of Vancouver's Homelessness Action Plan, and call on the provincial government to restore a full subsidized housing program as the lead element in the fight against homelessness." This, in the wake of news reports suggesting "the provincial government is considering rent subsidies to renters instead of revitalizing the housing program."

Non-Partisan Association councillor Kim Capri introduced an amendment toning down that motion. But it was Councillor Cadman who succeeded in killing it. Rising to the occassion, the bearded crusader pointed out "The standing committee on council and city services ruled that the motion I proposed (was) out of order because a motion to reaffirm a position previously taken by adopting a motion or resolution is not in order. We've already adopted the homeless action plan. As the clerk said at that time, what would happen if we defeated this amendment? Where would that put us, vis-a-vis the homeless action plan?"

And that statement led Mayor Sam Sullivan (a supporter of rent supplements) to the conclusion that the whole motion should be ruled out of order.