Hamilton City Councilors have voted to name an experienced replacement for Ward 5 (Redhill area) Coun. Chad Collins, who is now the federal deputy for Hamilton East – Stoney Creek following his victory in the federal election.
Councilors voted in favor of the nomination process in lieu of a by-election after Mayor Fred Eisenberger raised that case saying the timeline between a possible race to the polls in the new year and the proximity of the next civic election in October 2022 it did not justify such a situation. effort.
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“By the time we work through a process for a by-election, as indicated, we are probably well into March and then we are into bullshit season,” Eisenberger told council members.
“So I don’t see much value in having an expensive, time consuming and lengthy process.”
Councilors Brad Clark, Judi Partridge and Maria Pearson were quick to agree to the suggestion due to the proximity of a complicated upcoming budget process and the likelihood of voter fatigue with the recent federal elections.
“So it can be exhausting for voters to the point of not going out to vote,” Pearson said.
“I think with so little time that we need someone, like Coun. Partridge mentioned, possibly a former retired councilor who is very familiar with the process of working with staff. “
City Clerk Andrea Holland clarified a recent report from Ward 8 Coun staff. John-Paul Danko inquires about the logistics of a by-election, saying it could be months before staff can secure providers, acquire staff, technology and public health approvals for a vote.
Eisenberger suggested that the recruiting process should involve a candidate with prior experience, particularly a person who has been in office.
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“You know, obviously everyone can want to be appointed, but the reality is that we have to choose someone who can take over and provide effective representation because they have the talent, the knowledge, the experience to be able to do that quickly,” Eisenberger said.
The appointment will be made at a special board meeting on November 12 and the new member will take office on November 24.
Councilors also voted to replace Collins on the police services board with Downtown District 2 Councilman Jason Farr.
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