Centre Street - Photo by Emily Chatwood / MBC News
Greater Napanee staff will recommend a review of the town’s ward boundaries during the next term of council, with public input expected to help shape the future of local representation.
In an interview with myFM, Town Clerk Jessica Walters said the five ward boundaries have remained unchanged since 2003, despite population growth and changing community needs.
Staff will likely recommend a review around 2028, giving the municipality time to examine options and consult residents before the 2030 municipal election.
During that last review in 2002, community open houses were held, and most feedback supported maintaining the ward system rather than switching to at-large voting.
Recent online discussions during the election have raised questions about eliminating wards. Walters said an at-large system could be considered as part of a future review.
The process would examine projected population growth, the needs of different communities and possible ways to improve representation. Residents would have opportunities to provide feedback before council considers a report outlining potential options.
Council would ultimately select its preferred system and pass a bylaw to implement the changes for the next election.
Walters said Greater Napanee’s geographic size and diverse communities provide an argument for keeping wards.
No immediate changes are planned, and the review remains a staff recommendation rather than a confirmed council decision.
Written by Emily Chatwood
