Renfrew Council’s meeting on Tuesday saw some members express a lack of confidence in the mayor, but not everyone was on board.
The motion of non-confidence in Mayor Tom Sidney regarding his responsibility in the Ma-te-Way Expansion Project only passed in a recorded vote of 4-3.
So why did that vote split?
Councilor Kyle Cybulski voted against it, as he would feel hypocritical in making a decision without a key piece of information.
He would add that the “no” vote was not an endorsement of the mayor, who he believes has a lot of work to do as a leader.
Another reason given for voting against the motion was the possibility that it could set a dangerous precedent going forward.
That was a main concern from Reeve Peter Emon, who expressed concern that tabling complaints in the form of motions could be abused to strategically disrupt future councils.
He also believes the vote was premature without the information and recommended actions that will be laid out in the final third-party report on the project.
That sentiment was also held by Mayor Sidney himself, who kept his remarks during the discussion brief.
After thanking his family for their support over the past month, Sidney noted that he will have an official statement on the matter once the next report on the matter is brought to council.
Council members have agreed not to comment on the specifics of the third-party report ahead of its release so as not to influence it.
(written by Kasey Egan)
