​Kincardine council to remain at nine members through 2026 election

A proposal to reduce the number of members on Kincardine council has been defeated.

At the council meeting Wednesday night (Oct. 9), a motion was put forward by mayor Kenneth Craig, and seconded by councillor Rory Cavanagh, recommending that council include, in the 2025 budget deliberations, $12,000 to hire a consultant to review and provide recommendations specifically on the number of members that would comprise council following the 2026 election.

Craig said he brought this issue forward for three reasons: government efficiency, maintaining the ward system for broader representation, and fiscal responsibility. He noted that reducing the council to seven members from nine would save about $80,000.

Councillor Bill Stewart said if the proposal was to change the ward system, that would be a huge consideration.

“If the idea is to reduce council by two, then they would be from the at-large councillors,” he said. “That leaves just one at-large councillor, the deputy mayor, the mayor and the ward councillors. That would be interesting. Do we need public input on this?

Craig said that if council just decides to reduce the number by two, no public consultation would be needed.

The motion noted that a consultant could provide unbiased options for changes to the council composition; offer options to ensure legal principles are being followed; and host community conversations, including public open houses and workshops.

Cavanagh said that if council is looking to make cuts to the budget and increasing the tax rate, then it should start with itself. “I think we could forgo the consultant and find a solution with a vote tonight.”

Councillor Amanda Steinhoff-Gray said she would not entertain any changes to the ward system because that ensures the Wards 2 and 3 voices are not drowned out.

“We all bring a different perspective to the table,” she said. “I’m not confident this is the way to go. We’re a growing community. I think this would be a disservice.”

The motion was defeated.

Currently, council consists of the mayor, deputy mayor and three councillors, all voted by the entire municipality; as well as two Ward 1 councillors, representing the former Town of Kincardine; one Ward 2 councillor, representing the former Kincardine Township; and one Ward 3 councillor, representing the former Bruce Township.