Russell Township Council has decided to keep the public question period at council meetings, for now.
On February 26, council voted to defer an amendment to the township’s procedural bylaw which would have removed the Question Period on Meeting of the Day which allows residents to ask questions of council and staff about matters related to items on the meeting agenda.
At the February 12 council meeting, Councillor Mike Tarnowski initiated a discussion about whether a question period should continue to be a regular feature of municipal council meetings. Tarnowski was skeptical about how effectively question period supports open government. He said that instead of asking questions, the public usually take the opportunity to make statements, often aimed at undermining staff.
On February 26, staff presented information to council recognizing the importance of implementing a Public Engagement Policy for the township. Tarnowski said he appreciates the engagement from residents on the issue but again noted the objectionable behaviour displayed by some residents during question period.
“Over the past 12 to 18 months, we’ve observed a concerning shift in the tone and direction of the questions posed during these periods,” he said.
The prospect of a Public Engagement Policy and the significant response from citizens following the initial consideration of eliminating question period led Tarnowski to propose deferring the elimination. However, he added there must be measures in place to protect the wellbeing of staff during question period.
Councillor Marc Lalonde said he previously supported eliminating question period for similar reasons.
“Question period is not an opportunity for residents to make comments, give opinions, or level criticism at council or staff,” he remarked.
Lalonde said that generally, only three or four residents usually attend council meetings, which indicates there is a larger problem with public engagement. He wondered if other activities like “town hall” style forums would be better.
Councillor Jamie Laurin said he has always supported a public question period, but actual questions must be asked during it.
Councillor Lisa Deacon said she would not vote to remove question period from council meetings. She said public engagement is needed, especially since trust in public institutions is so low.
During the question period at the February 26 meeting, a series of residents had questions about question period. Mayor Pierre Leroux emphasized that according to the procedural bylaw, question period is limited to questions only. In response to a question about possible town hall forums, Leroux said they could be similar to the public consultation the township holds annually while preparing the budget.
Lalonde urged residents to contact their members of council anytime with questions, comments, or suggestions.
“We’re available,” he remarked.
Leroux also urged residents to also contact councillors. Russell does not have wards, so residents are free to contact whichever councillor they want. He also suggested residents appear as delegations before council.
Tarnowski moved to defer the elimination of question period until a Community Engagement Policy is developed.
“I’m happy to keep the question period as it is until we have the chance to look at other options,” he said.
Laurin seconded the motion, and it was adopted unanimously.
