Below is a summary of key items discussed at the Municipality of Port Hope regular Council Meeting held on Tuesday, September 15, 2020. The full agenda and staff reports are available on the Council Portal. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this meeting was held electronically via video conference.
Commitment to anti-racism and anti-oppression
Council received correspondence from the Council of the Municipality of West Grey condemning the unjust treatment, oppression, and racism against those who identify as black, indigenous, and people of colour.
In turn, Council passed a resolution in support of the belief that everyone deserves to live free of systematic oppression and racialized violence. Additionally, the Municipality of Port Hope commits to actively work towards anti-racism and anti-oppression at every opportunity, beginning with annual training for council, committee members, and employees for anti-racism, anti-oppression, diversity and inclusion, and the history of Aboriginal peoples.
Additional information regarding the Municipality’s commitment to anti-racism and anti-oppression will be outlined in an upcoming media release.
Chief Administrative Officer appointment
Council officially appointed David Smith as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the Municipality of Port Hope.
The Chief Administrative Officer is responsible for exercising general control and management of the affairs of the Municipality for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective operation of the Corporation.
It was announced that David Smith was selected as the new CAO in a media release from the Municipality on July 23, 2020. Mr. Smith will begin work on Monday, September 21, 2020 and his office will be located at Town Hall.
Parking By-law amendment – restriction at Sylvan Glen Road
It has come to the attention of staff by members of Council, residents, and users of the area, that at times, parking on Sylvan Glen Road can restrict the movement of vehicles both north and south of the property. This congestion on the roadway also restricts access for emergency vehicles. Additionally, the bridge at the Ganaraska Road is a one-lane bridge, which further narrows the roadway and contributes to the traffic congestion.
As such, Council considered a staff report and approved a Parking By-law amendment to restrict parking on the east side of Sylvan Glen Road, 150 metres north and 150 metres south of the Ganaraska River, effective immediately.
Closed Meeting Policy adoption
Council adopted a Closed Meeting Policy. The policy builds upon the Municipality’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
The Policy provides guidance to Council and staff when proposing and considering topics for consideration in a Closed Meeting. Further, the Policy provides for the formalization of current practices and incorporates best practices as identified previously by the Ontario Ombudsman. It is not a requirement of the Act to have a Closed Meeting Policy, but adoption of a formalized policy is another step forward in representing the Municipality of Port Hope as a leader in accountability and transparency.
Minutes from this meeting will be available pending approval at the next Council meeting on Tuesday, October 6, 2020, at which point they will become the official record of the meeting.
Recordings of the September 15, 2020 Regular Council meeting and Committee of the Whole meeting are available on YouTube.
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