Richmond Hill, City of

The Ombudsman reviewed closed meetings held by the City of Richmond Hill to discuss a land use planning matter that had been appealed to the LPAT. The Ombudsman found that each discussion fit within the exception for litigation or potential litigation.

The Ombudsman reviewed several electronic meetings held by the City of Richmond Hill where council’s resolution to go in camera was not broadcast live. The Ombudsman found that this contravened the requirements of section 239(4)(a) of the Act. The Ombudsman recommended that the City ensure that the public is able to observe all open portions of electronic meetings including the resolution to go in camera and any business conducted after rising from closed session. This recommendation includes meetings where the only item on the agenda is an in camera matter. The Ombudsman also recommended that the City ensure that information on how to access the live broadcast of an electronic meeting is provided in all meeting notices.