Council composition goes to a vote

A public meeting was held June 28 regarding the future structure of Clearview council.
Council floated two options for consideration. Option 1: A five-ward structure (seven-member council): five councillors, a deputy mayor and mayor; and Option 2: Maintain the current ward structure (nine-member council): seven councillors, a deputy mayor and mayor.
No members of the public appeared to make comments during the virtual meeting but four letters were received, all in favour of Option 1.
“Simply put, a streamlined smaller council is a more efficient council,” wrote Keith Carter. “For the population and area involved a smaller council truly does make sense. As it is some councillors have a very small area and density and could easily be covered by the remaining council members. Yes, I realize it will mean an area does not have ‘personal’ representation but I have no doubt the councillor covering will do a fine job. There will also be a small cost saving but any saving is a plus. The present size of council has never made sense to me.”
An earlier survey, which informed the two options presented at the public meeting, indicated that respondents were pretty much split down the middle on keeping the current nine-member council composition of seven councillors plus a mayor and deputy mayor, versus eliminating two council seats, but 76 per cent said they prefer the ward system.
The public still has time to comment before council takes a vote on July 12.
Anyone who wishes to voice their preference is encouraged to get in touch with their ward councillor or e-mail all councillors at council@clearview.ca.