The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has announced changes to their deputation process, aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and accessibility for residents.
Municipal officials say the deputation process is a vital part of informing Council’s decision-making process, where residents can present their views and concerns, on matters brought before them.
“Moving forward, all deputations must be submitted to the Clerk’s Office (ckclerk@chatham-kent.ca) by noon on the day of the council meeting to the Clerk’s Office (not 3:00 p.m. as previously required) in order to be added to the deputation list,” Municipal officials said in a media release.
“Deputations will continue to be presented in the Council Chambers during the Council meeting, by the individual writing it.”
If the individual cannot attend a council meeting to present their deputation in person, other options are:
– Submit the deputation in writing by noon and it will be emailed to Council for their review prior to the meeting; or
– A person can attend the Council meeting virtually to present their deputation.
Section 7.9 (f) of the Procedural By-law reads:
Deputations will be accepted in the following formats:
– In written format or video format to be emailed to Council at noon p.m. on the day of the meeting but will not be read or shown during the meeting. The author’s name of the submission will be included in the minutes as deputations received; or
– In written format read by the person during the meeting by either attending in person or by electronic participation. The author’s name of the submission will be included in the minutes as deputations received.
These changes will enhance a resident’s ability to participate in the deputation process. We are committed to continually improving our processes and ensuring that residents have a voice in the decision-making process.
If anyone has any questions or concerns regarding the new deputation process, contact the Municipality by calling 311.
