Council seeks public input through new citizen advisory committees

By Lindsey Stuckless

The Haldimand Press

HALDIMAND—Haldimand Council will move forward on their goal of developing youth and senior advisory committees in 2019.

The goal of the committees is to have citizens engage in municipal issues and to strengthen community relationships.

In his inaugural address, Mayor Ken Hewitt stated his desire to create a youth advisory committee. After review, Council felt it was beneficial to establish a senior committee as well. Hewitt said he is thrilled the project is moving along.

“I am happy to see this project come together tonight and the addition of the senior committee is a great idea,” said Hewitt.

Haldimand staff reviewed best practices from other municipalities with similar advisory committees, including Norfolk, Niagara Falls, Caledon, and Brant County. Staff then recommended terms of references for both committees, as well as a recruitment process.

Recruitment for the committees will begin in September 2019. In addition to newspaper ads and posting on the Haldimand County website, staff will visit local senior groups to inform them about the new opportunity. Staff will also reach out to existing youth groups and schools to give them information regarding the opportunity.