UPDATE: Since publishing this article, tbnewswatch.com has learned several councillors, including Northwood Coun. Shelby Ch'ng, received copies of the agenda by Wednesday evening. The public document, however, remained unavailable to the public and members of the media.
THUNDER BAY – At least one sitting councilor is concerned that agendas for the upcoming council meeting have yet to be distributed.
Northwood Coun. Shelby Ch'ng, along with fellow councilors, the media and members of the public are still waiting for the agendas associated with Monday’s upcoming meeting.
It's unclear whether a mistake or a printing issue has led to the delay in agenda material being released to media, members of the public and city councillors. The agenda is usually given to councillors on the Monday or Tuesday prior to the next meeting and then the public by Wednesday at noon.
The July 20 meeting has a report from administration suggesting work on Cumberland Street, which was approved by council in May after administration recommended it be pushed back until next year to make up a shortfall on Golf Links Road, be delayed until 2016.
"I'm pretty upset that I don't have an agenda considering we've already made a decision on Cumberland. If they want me to see it their way I need the agenda and material to make a decision," Northwood Coun. Ch'ng said.
Ch'ng said it's not the first time agendas have been delayed, making it difficult for councillors to be prepared and make what they feel are the best and most informed decisions come Monday.
Ch’ng added that it’s time for the city to move to all electronic agendas and material.
As the agenda is not out yet, the Cumberland Street report is not public, leaving city officials saying they still can't comment on the matter.
The agenda is expected by late Wednesday afternoon or Thursday. A summary of it can be seen here.
