The Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing says it will be observing all Rideau Lakes council meetings for the rest of the current term after becoming aware of governance challenges.
In a letter to township clerk Mary Ellen Truelove, the ministry says staff from the Eastern Municipal Services Office will attend and monitor meetings, reporting their observations to the minister.
The ministry acknowledged that the township has already hired a consultant to provide governance and conflict-resolution training to council, calling it a “positive and proactive step.”
The ministry says it remains committed to supporting the township’s efforts toward effective governance and encourages officials to reach out for further guidance if needed.
The response comes days after Mayor Arie Hoogenboom asked the province to vacate all council seats as well as his own and to hold an election.