During a Strata Council meeting in Richmond, BC, a council member, Mr. Lee, suggests discussing a potential contract renewal with a landscaping company that he partially owns. What should the property manager advise the Strata Council regarding Mr. Lee's participation in this discussion and vote?

Question: During a Strata Council meeting in Richmond, BC, a council member, Mr. Lee, suggests discussing a potential contract renewal with a landscaping company that he partially owns. What should the property manager advise the Strata Council regarding Mr. Lee's participation in this discussion and vote?

Answer options: ✅ Mr. Lee must declare his interest and recuse himself from the discussion and vote on that matter.

• Mr. Lee can participate fully as long as his ownership is disclosed to all owners later.
• Mr. Lee can vote but not discuss, to avoid appearing biased.
• The property manager should approve the contract to prevent conflict.

Correct answer: Mr. Lee must declare his interest and recuse himself from the discussion and vote on that matter.

Explanation: Under the Strata Property Act of BC, a council member who has a direct or indirect interest in a contract or transaction must declare the nature and extent of that interest and must not participate in the discussion or vote on the matter.