A Chatham-Kent Councillor is looking to “enhance public trust” in elected officials with a new communications policy.
North Kent Councillor Jamie McGrail entered a notice of motion at the Monday, May 26, 2025 Council meeting.
“The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is dedicated to fostering strong, transparent, and enduring relationships with its constituents through frequent, open, and honest communication,” McGrail said.
“Municipal Councillors in Chatham-Kent diligently engage with their communities, advocating resourcefully, and finding solutions both locally and regionally. Recognizing the significant role that municipal councillors play in uniting communities for the betterment of all and acknowledging that ward-specific issues and initiatives arise which necessitate timely communication and media releases from the municipality.”
McGrail’s motions, if approved, is requesting that a policy be established to outline the criteria for including councillors in municipal communications.
“This policy aims to enhance public trust in our elected officials by promoting transparency in government activities, ensuring accuracy and consistency in information dissemination, across all municipal communication channels and should be returned to council by September 2025,” McGrail said.
The motion is set to be on the agenda for the Monday, June 9, 2025 Council meeting.
It will start at 6 p.m. at the Civic Centre in Chatham.
