Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Ramara Township has 2 Too Many Councillors

Way does Ramara need a Mayor or a Deputy Mayor? Orillia doesn't have a Deputy Mayor! Our Mayor doesn't have the authority or job description like the Mayor of Barrie! The weight of the Mayor's one vote on council is no greater than any other councillors. So why should ratepayers taxes support these 2 positions that serve no discernible function, aside from ceremorial role the Mayor has from time to time to host some civic function?

I support the elimination of the Deputy Mayor position altogether. I would keep our 5 ward system, and their direct election by voters. I would then allow body of 5 select amongst them 1 to become the new Mayor.
That person would hold that position of 1 year, at which time council would choose a new Mayor. The incumbent would be allowed stand again.

The Mayor would represent the township at County Council. The township's 2nd representative would come from 1 of the remaining 4 members of council. That seat could be served on a rotating basis.

Under this proposed reform ratepayers would not see any reduction on council perform. It may possibly improve from the elimination of 2 voices of debate. There would be that savings for ratepayers by eliminating 2 positions and their expenses.