Town of Oakville to consider new council meeting format
Published May 4, 2022 at 11:17 am
Oakville is considering a new format that would allow Town Council to attend meetings in person or participate electronically and it wants the public’s input.
The new “hybrid” arrangement would allow members of council to be in the Council Chambers or take part virtually by telephone or the internet.
The public would also be able to watch the meetings on oakville.ca or YouTube, continuing the format used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Public delegations are able to present their information either by telephone or by the Zoom electronic meeting software, with an option for audio only or video and audio for the delegating persons.
“Council and I value and welcome public participation during our council meetings,” said Oakville Mayor Rob Burton.
“Other municipalities are reporting that the electronic participation by the public increases public participation and also make councils get more done. Our experience seems similar.”
The Ontario Legislature changed the Municipal Act early during the pandemic to permit electronic meeting formats.
The provincial government would later announce the change would be permanent.
Other councils, like the York Region Council, have already made the new format permanent.
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The Town is looking for suggestions from the public on the new “hybrid” council meeting format.
Residents can submit their feedback by emailing [email protected].
Everyone is welcome to participate in open meetings of Council and committee meetings.