The Municipal Act requires that SDG Counties Council conduct its business in an open forum. However, legislation also permits SDG Counties Council to close a meeting or a portion of a meeting to the public under certain circumstances, chiefly in instances related to legal matters, personnel, or property, as discussing these items in public may be detrimental to individuals or the municipal corporation. Prior to closing a meeting or a portion of a meeting to the public, SDG Counties Council must give notice of the same and provide a general description of the matter it will be discussing in the closed session.
Requesting an Investigation of a Closed Meeting
Individuals who believe that SDG Counties Council improperly called or held a closed meeting may request that the matter be reviewed by an investigator. SDG Counties has contracted with Local Services Authority (LAS) to provide external, impartial investigative services. Individuals who are concerned about a closed meeting should first contact the Director of Corporate Services/Clerk to discuss the issue. If, after reviewing the matter, the individual wishes to pursue an investigation, written request for an investigation must be filed with the Director of Corporate Services/Clerk, at the address below, together with a cheque in the amount of $125 payable to the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry.
Written request for investigation and cheque to be forwarded to:
Director of Corporate Services/Clerk
United Counties of SD&G
26 Pitt Street,
Cornwall, ON K6J 3P2