THUNDER BAY – Local Politics – The committee reviewing the structure of Thunder Bay City Council is calling on the public to weigh in on two potential options for change.
This comes as part of Phase 2 of the review process, aimed at improving representation and effectiveness of the council.
Residents are being asked to consider:
Option 1: Hybrid Model
- Four wards with two councillors elected per ward.
- Two at-large councillors elected by the entire city.
- Voters would cast ballots for five positions: two ward councillors, two at-large councillors, and the Mayor.
This option aims to address concerns raised in earlier consultations, such as councillor workload, representation of urban and rural areas, and ensuring cohesive neighbourhoods within ward boundaries.
Option 2: At-Large Model
- Ten councillors-at-large elected by the entire city.
- Voters would cast ballots for eleven positions: ten councillors-at-large and the Mayor.
This model emphasizes the idea that all voters should have a say in electing all council members.
“We need to hear from the public on how they feel they can be best represented,” said Rebecca Johnson, Chair of the Council Composition Review Committee. “This committee has reviewed options and heard what the public feels is important. Now, it’s time to hear what people think will be the best composition of council going forward.”
Have Your Say:
A survey will be available online at www.thunderbay.ca/getinvolved starting Monday, October 7th, and will remain open for three weeks. Paper copies can be picked up at City Hall and Thunder Bay Public Library branches.
The committee will also be gathering feedback in person at various locations throughout the city, including:
- 55-Plus Centre, River Street (Oct. 10)
- Northwood Ward Meeting (Oct. 10)
- Westfort Ward Meeting (Oct. 16)
- Neebing Ward Meeting (Oct. 17)
- Thunder Bay Country Market (Oct. 19)
- McIntyre Ward Meeting (Oct. 24)
- Lakehead University Thunderwolves Hockey Game, Fort William Gardens (Oct. 26)
- Current River Ward Meeting (Nov. 12)
Feedback sessions will also be held at the Thunder Bay Public Library.
The committee will then present a recommendation to City Council in early 2025. If changes are approved, they would be implemented for the 2026 municipal election. The last time Thunder Bay adjusted its council composition was in 1985.
