Deborah Schroeder, Resident, appeared before the Committee and stated that she wanted to understand what Council was trying to accomplish through a review of the Procedure By-law, and the reason it was a priority for Council and the citizens of Whitby at this time. Ms. Schroeder stated that Council should only undertake this review of the Procedure By-law to ensure that Whitby was pursuing leadership in fairness, democracy, accountability, and being open and transparent by offering flexible meeting times, opportunities for constituents to speak, and fairness in sharing the responsibilities and duties as Deputy Mayor. She noted that for many people delegating is the only opportunity to speak at meetings, to share concerns, and for Members of Council to ask the public questions. She stated that if the public was willing to take the time to delegate that was important that their voices be heard, noting that this process was vital to fair government. Ms. Schroeder raised concerns about limiting who, when, and the amount of time delegates may speak. She inquired about the purpose of the review and the reason Council may want to limit democracy, accountability, transparency, and fairness.
A brief question and answer period ensured between Members of Committee and Ms. Schroeder regarding the delegate’s interest in being added to an interested party list to receive notification of the report back to Council.