City Councillor Marcus Tignanelli sees Thursday's Virtual Town Hall with citizens as an opportunity to move discussions about the City of North Bay from the domain of the comments sections of local media outlets to a respectful online forum where no subject is off-limits.
Call it a virtual airing of grievances — but one that reaches municipal politicians in a constructive setting.
The first-term councillor has not been shy in participating in online discussions with members of the public and Tignanelli says the online session gives everyone the chance — especially the critics of council and staff — to have their say with the full attention of municipal officials.
Tignanelli says there is, "no excuse," not to take part in the Virtual Town Hall, scheduled for Thursday from 6 until 8 p.m.
"The most frustrating thing during my time on council has been the constant negativity on social media yet less than 30 people show up to the budget open houses," he says. "I hope to hear from every single person who has ever complained online. Turn your frustration into action!"
The City of North Bay is touting the Zoom meeting as open to all members of the public and an opportunity for presentations on any matters within the jurisdiction of the municipality, including the 2021 budget.
"Residents and businesses are encouraged to make use of the meeting as a forum to share their thoughts and suggestions about next year’s budget," said Mayor Al McDonald.
"What do you want to see the City of North Bay spend our taxes on and what services are currently provided that you don’t want? Can’t wait to hear from all of you," writes Tignanelli in a Facebook post.
The deadline to submit and present for three minutes during the town hall has passed but written submissions to be forwarded to Council members are still being accepted by the Clerk’s office.
"Perhaps a citizen has a great idea that the City should research further. Or perhaps they’re tired of our high taxes and would like to see services cut. All of the user groups want their facilities and programs funded but at some point enough is enough," says Tignanelli, referring to common grievances from taxpayers. "I would like to hear from the public what services they do not want to be offered any longer."
Tignanelli has expressed support for the option for increased online participation in municipal affairs and those sentiments extend to virtual access for citizens, as well. After witnessing lower than hoped for turnouts at previous budget open houses, he notices it's "always the same actively engaged citizens. Hopefully, with this year being virtual this will expand the level of participation. And for those who are not on the internet as always, they can write letters or call my cell."
See related story: Should virtual participation in council meetings be expanded?
And: City Council is taking steps to ensure electronic meetings continue until the end of the year
"Greater participation would be for the benefit of all," observes Tignanelli. "While councillors are always reachable via email or phone this is a great opportunity for citizens to speak directly to all members of council at once about any topic they are having issues with."
You can watch the Virtual Town Hall via Zoom live on the City of North Bay's website or on its YouTube channel.
