Understanding your local government
I’ve served on Council, and I want to use that experience to explain how your municipal government works—in clear, everyday language. You shouldn’t need a municipal decoder ring to understand Town Hall.
Watch and learn
I want residents to know there are different ways to speak directly to Council. A deputation is arranged in advance and allows Council to ask questions. Open Forum is a shorter opportunity to speak without debate or discussion.
View the explainer →I believe Council should be open whenever possible. Ontario law does require confidentiality when personal information, legal advice or sensitive negotiations are involved. Good leadership means explaining what you can—and respecting confidentiality when you must.
I want you to be able to see what the Town plans to do, what services and projects will cost and how they will be paid for. Council must examine priorities, operating costs, infrastructure, reserves and the effect on taxpayers.
View the budget guide →Council decisions usually begin with a staff report, public notice or recommendation. Councillors review the information, hear public input, debate the issue and vote in an open meeting unless the law permits a closed discussion.
I encourage you to follow agendas, attend or watch meetings, contact members of Council, speak during Open Forum, make a deputation and take part in public consultations. The earlier you get involved, the more opportunity your input has to shape a decision.