At times, Council deals with matters of a confidential nature. When this situation arises, Council may hold a closed (or in-camera) meeting. Section 239 of the Municipal Act, 2001 outlines when a municipal council, local board, or a committee may close a meeting, or part of a meeting to the public.
In order to close a meeting to the public, Council must state by resolution that a closed meeting will be held and state the general nature of the matter to be considered at the closed meeting. The Municipal Act also imposes certain restrictions on a meeting that is held without the public present by requiring that no vote be taken on any matter unless the vote is for a procedural matter or for giving direction to Town staff.
When can a meeting or part of a meeting be closed to the public? |
As per Section 239(2) of the Municipal Act, 2001, a meeting, or part of a meeting, may be closed to the public if the subject matter being considered is;
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What can you do if you have a concern related to a meeting or part of a meeting that was closed to the public? |
If you have a question or concern about a meeting or part of a meeting that was closed to the public you may contact the Clerk. If you feel Council or a Council committee or board has improperly held a closed meeting, you can request an investigation. The Ontario Ombudsman is the Town's Closed Meetings Investigator. Any corporation or member of the public can submit a complaint to the Closed Meeting Investigator. Complaints are always confidential. For information about how to submit a complaint, visit the website for the Ontario Ombudsman or contact 1-800-263-1830. |