List of safety and security measures developed for council consideration

The city's Joint Health and Safety Committee has made a list of safety and security measures that could be implemented in council chambers.

Sarnia council asked staff to report back with consultation from the group at the October 27 meeting, after city/county councillor Bill Dennis apologized for an outburst earlier that month.

The committee has outlined six different options to ensure the health and safety of staff, members of the public, and elected officials.

They include:

Developing an emergency plan that outlines specific procedures for escalating incidents, involving law enforcement if necessary, and providing support.

Developing a security protocol with controlled access points, vigilant surveillance, and trained personnel to promptly respond to any potential security concerns.

Updating the Procedure By-Law to clearly define the rules of council chambers, and its safety and security measures.

Creating a contentious meeting protocol to maintain order and safety in chambers.

Re-educating/training the chair or city clerk on the rights to recess and remove members from the chamber.

Establishing physical measures in chambers, like installing metal detectors and x-ray scanners at entrances to deter potential threats and hiring security to manage crowd control, identify suspicious behavior, and respond to emergencies.

The committee consulted several other municipalities, including the Village of Point Edward, to compile the options for consideration.

The report is included in Monday's agenda.