A Chatham-Kent councillor is seeking a formal policy on how the municipality should include elected officials in external communications.
Ward 4 Councillor Jamie McGrail tabled a motion at last week’s council meeting to discuss and vote on the development of a policy for incorporating councillor input and quotes into municipal communications when appropriate, to enhance public trust in elected officials.
McGrail said councillors play a significant role in uniting the community and their voices should be heard regarding ward-specific issues.
“Sometimes I just felt that councillors are not heard and not brought in. I just really feel that, in this day and age… any kind of information that can be shared, should be shared and who was involved,” she said.
McGrail added that including councillors on municipal releases will ensure the community is aware of the positive role their representatives play.
“There’s a lot more behind the scenes that we do as councillors than just sitting Monday nights in council [meetings],” she said.
McGrail’s motion will return to council for discussion on June 9. If the motion moves forward, McGrail has asked that a formal policy return to council for review and implementation in September.
