By Pepper Parr
September 7th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
My first reaction to the news that the Chairing of Committee of the Whole (COW) has been changed was – about time.
When Mayor Meed Ward changed the way Council meeting were going to be held given the new Strong Mayor powers were going to be exercised, she had everything being a Committee of the Whole with Her Worship serving as the Chair. The Standing Committees took place as subsets within the COW meeting.
It was awkward, very awkward when the new procedure was put in place. There was never any explanation as to why the change was made.
The Chairing of the COW meetings is now going to be shared amongst all seven members of Council.
Ward 6 Councillor Angelo Bentivegna will now chair some of the Committee of the Whole meetings.
Not sure why this came about – but it is a good sign. Hopefully Councillor Bentivegna will be able to handle the workload – it can get complex and a little complex at times – not something he has ever been particularly good at.
The Mayor will not be wearing the Chain of Office; that is worn only at Council meetings where decisions are being made and bylaws are being passed.
Just 24 more COW meetings until they pause while the municipal elections take place. We are aware of decisions some councillors have made on what they plan to do in 2026.
