GUELPH/ERAMOSA – Township council here has approved an alternative method of voting for next year’s municipal election.
On May 3 council voted in support of the vote-by-mail method for the 2022 election.
“Municipalities have explored alternative voting methods to improve convenience for voters, allow for greater accessibility and to engage more voters,” states a report from clerk Amanda Knight.
The township previously used mail-in voting for the 2018 and 2014 municipal elections.
Following a presentation regarding alternative voting methods, it was recommended to council to proceed with the vote-by-mail method in preparation for the election next year.
“After reviewing the alternative methods and discussing staffing, financial and technological resources, it was determined that the vote-by-mail method would be the most appropriate for the Township of Guelph-Eramosa for the 2022 municipal election,” Knight states in the report.
According to the report, some of the advantages of using vote-by-mail for the voters include added convenience, reduced confusion and accessibility.
The report also noted that for the township, advantages would include improved implementation, improved voter engagement and participation, and an opportunity for shared resources.
A vote-by-mail kit will be provided to individuals who are eligible to vote. The kit will either be mailed or directly provided to each qualified voter.
Voters must complete and return the ballots by mail or deposit them at a ballot return station on or before 8pm on the voting day, currently set for Oct. 22.
Risk assessment
Also on May 3, council approved the community risk assessment developed by Guelph-Eramosa’s fire department.
The fire department monitors residential, commercial and agricultural occupancies within a set area and identifies the levels of risk associated with them. The assessment will be used to develop strategies to mitigate these risks.
Bylaw changes
Council reviewed the bylaw enforcement/property standards report and approved an amendment to its entrance permit bylaw. The bylaw sets out that permits are required for the installation, alteration, construction, maintenance and relocation of new or existing entrances to buildings. The motion was approved.
The motion to approve a site alteration bylaw was deferred so staff can review it. Council also deferred a by-law addressing the removal of topsoil, the placing or dumping of fill and the alteration of the grade of land in the township.
