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One of the best-known, and perhaps least understood of all the municipal tools, the Procedure Bylaw, is an iconic document. At first glance, such mandatory "Rules of Procedure" are intended to facilitate the meetings of council as well as various committees and other local government bodies. They are also meant to oversee the behaviour of participants, including councillors, staff, and residents.
Infused with best practices, this session will explain how and when to review your Procedure Bylaw, provide helpful insights into post-pandemic electronic meetings, demonstrate how to draft confidential minutes endorsed by the Ontario Ombudsman, and we will discuss whether or not the Integrity Commissioner's authority should extend to such meetings. This workshop is a can't-miss learning opportunity for those seeking to not only update their rules but to ensure the efficient and effective management of meetings.
Learning Objectives
- Know how, when, and why you should regularly review your Procedure Bylaw
- Learn best practices for drafting a Procedure Bylaw, including how to address various tips and traps
- Understand that the Procedure Bylaw is not merely a set of rules to run council and committee meetings, but a statutory device that will help your council become leaders in open, accountable, and transparent decision-making
Speaker
Rick O'Connor
President, MuniverseRO Consulting Inc.
Rick started his municipal career as a solicitor with the former Region of Ottawa-Carleton. With the amalgamation of the City of Ottawa in 2001, he was appointed Deputy City Clerk while retaining the title of Legal Counsel. In 2006, he became the City Solicitor and less than three years later was appointed as the first City Clerk and City Solicitor in Canada.
Rick is now the President of MuniverseRO Consulting Inc., aimed at assisting municipalities with any governance issues. Rick has been honoured for his work in making local governments more open, transparent, and accountable - this includes being awarded the AMCTO Prestige Award in 2006, the Ontario Good Roads Association's Elaine Robinson Volunteer of the Year Award in 2012, and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal.