The Town of Essex wants more public feedback about possible ward boundary changes.
It is carrying out an online survey on its website. Responses must be in no later than July 28.
Back in March and April, the town conducted a series of public input sessions, and ultimately voted to elect the next Deputy Mayor at large starting with the municipal election next year. It also approved maintaining the size of the council at seven members, and retaining the current ward election system.
The town has hired consultants, Watson and Associates Economists Ltd. to conduct a review of ward boundaries.
Any changes to the ward or council structure must be confirmed by a municipal bylaw no later than December 31.
The town has four wards now but, "with council's recent decision to elect the Deputy Mayor at large, it means that the remaining five positions on council must be elected through a revised ward system," says Clerk and Manager of Legislative Services, Rob Auger.
During public consultations earlier this month, six possible ward configurations were presented.
Residents are encouraged to review their options on the town's website before taking the short survey. Print versions of the survey are also available at Essex Town Hall on Talbot St. S and at the Harrow and Colchester South Community Centre.
The survey's results will be presented to council at a future meeting.
