Editor,
Accepting the editor’s observation that not one resident registered to address Council about the budget, I would like to assure the public that the Meaford Chamber of Commerce did submit written comment on three budget items.
Some time ago, to enhance communication between the business community and Council, the Chamber Board invited members of Council to attend our monthly meeting. Four councillors were able to accept the invitation and are attending on a rotating basis. Due to scheduling conflicts the Deputy Mayor cannot attend but discusses issues of possible interest on a regular basis with us.
During our January session we were asked to provide comment on those three budgetary line items, which we did. I am not sure if this arrangement has changed policy direction but it does provide the Chamber Board and Council an opportunity to discuss areas of common interest or concern in an informed and timely manner rather than through deputations which, in my view, are not terribly effective. Shaping ideas and perspectives rather than fighting or defending them.
The Meaford Chamber of Commerce works closely with members of staff and this relationship will only be strengthened as key staff members, from time to time, will now also attend Board meetings. While we will certainly never completely agree with each other I believe that, by working together, better outcomes will be achieved. Not everything, however, happens in a public forum.
Scott Gooch, Meaford
